A MICHELIN-starred chef who worked with Gordon Ramsay has closed his popular pub.
The popular establishment will shut its doors for good after 12 years in business.
Chef Mark Anderson of The Ruddington Arms in Nottingham, has had to close the pub down[/caption]
The Michelin-starred pub has closed its doors[/caption]
Mark once worked under Gordon Ramsay[/caption]
Chef Mark Anderson, who owned the Ruddington Arms with his wife Sarah, shuttered the doors after the past three years took its toll “mentally, physically and financially”.
Mark, who was Sous Chef at Gordon Ramsay’s first business collaboration Teatro Restaurant and Club in Soho, opened the Nottinghamshire pub over a decade ago.
The Ruddington Arms was Mark’s first solo adventure as owner and chef after an illustrious culinary career working alongside the likes of Terry Laybourne.
Mark changed the face of the business, building a good reputation for fresh, seasonal food, following a complete renovation and new staff team.
It had been recommended in the Michelin Guide since 2015.
The closure of the pub, in Wilford Road, was announced on social media, with Mark and Sarah saying: “We never thought this day would come.”
Thanking customers, staff and suppliers, they said: “None of what we have achieved would have been possible without any of you.
“Whether its being listed in the Michelin Guide for ten years, winning pub of the year at the NRB awards or even the support you all gave through Covid.”
Owner and chef Mark began his cooking career in Newcastle upon Tyne aged 19 working for Terry Laybourne at the Michelin starred 21 Queen Street.
As hospitality businesses continue to struggle due to increasing costs across the board, the Andersons said it had never been more difficult.
Mark and Sarah added: “The past three years has taken its toll on us mentally, physically and financially.
“After Covid we took the decision to support our other businesses from the strength of the RA, but eventually this started to back fire so we downsized our business and we took on debt to try to find a way through.
“Unfortunately the debt we have accrued is no longer serviceable and we cannot continue.
“As always in these situations there will be people ready to pounce and listen to rumours and criticise.
“Yes, we have made mistakes but who had the answers in this unprecedented economical upheaval since Covid, and for whatever people may think we tried to do things the right way, keep local people employed, use local suppliers and support local events.
“We also want to clarify that all staff and suppliers will be paid in full.
“We could go on forever about the whys and what ifs, but unfortunately we have found ourselves here.
“After what has been an amazing 12 years in the main and we are very proud of what we achieved all that’s left to say now is thanks and goodbye.”
Devastated customers took to social media to express their disappointment at the news.
One wrote: “I’m so sad and shocked to hear this. You have worked so hard and created a beautiful pub with delicious food and a great atmosphere.
“We have had so many lovely times shared with you, and you have supported the local community so well in many different ways.”
Another said: “You could not have tried harder, worked more hours (without losing your soul) or done more to succeed.
“When outside factors impact without rhyme or reason you have to question whether it’s worth all the effort.
“You have both tried so hard and I thank you for all the wonderful meals, sausage rolls, pork pies and strawberries!”
In 2019, Mark and Sarah opened The Next Episode with a New York-style menu, cocktails and relaxed hip hop in Ruddington, but it closed three years ago.
The Ruddington Arms was a favourite in Nottingham[/caption]
Mark helped revamp the menu completely[/caption]
