A TOWN’s first-ever Michelin-starred restaurant has suddenly announced it will be closing – as its owners explain the “bittersweet” decision.
Restaurant Hjem became the first Northumberland joint to receive the coveted accolade in 2021.
Inspectors were impressed by the traditional Scandinavian cooking on offer at the restaurant, which was founded by Swedish chef Alex Nietosvuori and his partner Ally in 2019.
It quickly gained popularity both locally and further afield – and featured on the BBC‘s Hairy Bikers in 2023.
But the pair this week announced that the beloved spot near Hadrian’s Wall would be closing its doors for good on December 31 this year.
This came as a shock to fans – as just a few days previously, it was confirmed that the restaurant had held onto its sought-after Michelin star.
However, Alex and Ally insisted the closure did not spell the end of their culinary adventures.
The couple will be opening a new restaurant, Freyja, on the Close House Estate in Wylam next year – along with rooms on-site.
In the meantime, the couple will spend the rest of this year laying on a series of events to celebrate Hjem – including a special sixth birthday menu.
Alex said: “We want to make Restaurant Hjem’s final year its best one yet.
“We’re excited to celebrate everything we’ve achieved and leave a lasting impression in the hearts of those who’ve supported us along the way before we start a new chapter.
“Making the decision to close has not been an easy one. The past six years has been an incredible journey, filled with amazing people, unforgettable experiences, and a passion to create something truly special.
“It gave a platform for me to showcase my abilities and share my passion for food. It has shaped who I am and will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Ally added: “When we first dreamed of opening Restaurant Hjem, we wrote down what we hoped to create. Looking back now, we can honestly say we’ve done it – beyond anything we could have imagined.
“Hjem has always been more than just a place to eat: it has been a family. From our team to our guests and everyone in between, it’s been the relationships that have made this place so special.
“A break clause in our lease prompted us to think long and hard about the next few years and the ambitious plans we have for Freyja, which will open in autumn 2026.
“It feels fitting that as we break ground on Freyja, we spend time celebrating what we’ve created at Hjem.
“That’s why we’re making this announcement now, to give as many people who want to return to Hjem – or visit us for the first time – the chance to do so.”
The news comes after three other critically-acclaimed restaurants – La Goccia, the Petersham, and the Petersham Wine Bar & Deli – also announced they were closing.
Lara Boglione, the co-founder and director of the group, said her hand had been forced by “significant cost challenges” and “legacy issues relating to the trading impact of Covid-19 and Brexit“.
What is happening to the hospitality industry?
By Laura McGuire, consumer reporter
MANY Food and drink chains have been struggling in recently as the cost of living has led to fewer people spending on eating out.
Businesses had been struggling to bounce back after the pandemic, only to be hit with soaring energy bills and inflation.
Multiple chains have been affected, resulting in big-name brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny’s closing branches.
Some chains have not survived, Byron Burger fell into administration last year, with owners saying it would result in the loss of over 200 jobs.
Pizza giant, Papa Johns is shutting down 43 of its stores soon.
Tasty, the owner of Wildwood, said it will shut sites as part of major restructuring plans.
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