The owners say the Italian spot has been consumed by a “rising tide” of labour costs, rent hikes and VAT rates
A beloved Italian restaurant in Bethnal Green has been consumed by a “rising tide” of costs as it prepares to shut after 15 years. Ombra will close its doors on Vyner Street this week, devastating loyal patrons.
Announcing the sad news online, owners Mitch, Paolo and Steve stated the “writing’s on the wall” for the hospitality industry. “In our 15 years at Hackney’s canalside we’ve never traded through an environment quite like the one we’re experiencing now,” they said in a statement.
“And this from a business that didn’t miss a day of trade during back-to-back COVID lockdowns… In the last couple of years we’ve been consumed by a rising tide of labour costs, utilities, rent hikes, business rate increases and the most stubborn VAT policy in Europe.
The trio went on to celebrate the “more diverse, more interesting, more vibrant” dining landscape that’s developed in East London since their launch in 2011, but warned this is now under threat in the current trading climate. Bars, pubs and restaurants, as well as chef Tom Kerridge, are currently calling on the Labour government to slash the ‘crippling’ VAT rate put on them to 10%.
A staple of the canal side, Ombra is a neighbourhood trattoria with a focus on seasonal produce, natural wines & freshly made pasta. Mitch, Paolo and Steve wanted it to “uphold the spirit of an osteria” by being affordable and accessible to all diners.
Ending on a positive note, the closure announcement reads: “Since 2011 however we’ve watched how all the things Ombra set out to do have entered the East London vernacular. And many restaurants who’ve embraced the kind of cooking that excites us, we now call neighbours, collaborators and friends.”
Wine bar Brillo and bakery Forno, which has locations in Leytonstone, Hackney and the East End Museum, will continue to operate as normal.
London’s hospitality scene has taken some big hits in recent months, with both large chains and independent spots confirming their closure. This ever-increasing list includes Spaghetti House and most of the Patty & Bun sites, as well Holloway’s Sambal Shiok and Leyton-based Queer Brewing.
Got a story for MyLondon? Get in touch via [email protected]
Stay up to date about London’s hottest events, latest restaurant openings, and best deals with our Going Out Out newsletter. Sign up HERE!
