Popular high street restaurant closing down with ‘great sadness’ after 12 years | UK | News
A Michelin-starred chef has announced the closure of a popular restaurant after more than a decade as locals and fellow chefs bemoaned his departure. Owned and run by chef and restaurateur Phil Thompson, Thompson was established in St Albans in 2013.
Before the restaurant came to town, Phil had built his reputation through a long career at the pitside and was part of a team that earned a Michelin star at The Orrery in London. He became executive head chef at Brocket Hall in Hertfordshire, finishing second at Auberge du Lac.
Phil then realized his long-time ambition of owning his own home.
However, in a post on Instagram this week, he announced that the facility will soon serve customers for the last time.
He wrote: “It is with great sadness that we close our doors to Thompson St Albans after 12 years. “On behalf of myself and my team, I would like to thank everyone who has supported us and grown with us over the past 12 years.
“Our regulars have become part of the Thompson family, which means the world to us. To all our staff, past and present, thank you for your hard work.
“It hasn’t always been easy, but you have truly made THOMPSON St Albans a part of my life that I will always be very proud to remember. Best regards, Phil.”
Comments expressing sadness at the restaurant’s departure began to pour in from fellow chefs and fans of the establishment, with one person writing: “So sorry to hear about Phil, such a loss for St Albans and all of us but exciting to see more of your personal chef experiences!”
Another person stated that they were sorry to hear this news and added, “Happy 12 years, you have made wonderful visits during this time.”
Michelin-starred chef Paul Ainsworth expressed his admiration for Phil and the restaurant, saying 12 years has been “phenomenal” and that he and his team should be “very proud”.
Chris Galvin, a former colleague of Orrery’s who is now Chef Patron of Galvin Restaurants, wrote: “Congratulations to a great Innings Phil. ‘It’s better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all.’
“You have created untold special memories for your guests and taught so many young chefs,” he said, adding: “We are so proud of you, Phil.”
On the last night, Saturday, October 18, customers will be offered a special “closing menu” consisting of seven courses.
Phil also shared the announcement on the beloved local eatery’s website, adding: “It’s a farewell, but not a farewell… I’ve already had the pleasure of cooking for some of our guests in their homes as their personal chef for the evening.”
“Please book me for your special event; I look forward to seeing you again very soon!”
