“Continuing to trade just isn’t sustainable” - Joshua Hunter to close Kew restaurant Hawthorn

In a lengthy Instagram statement​​, Hunter confirmed the West London restaurant’s final service would be Sunday 30 June.

He said: “It’s with a heavy heart that I am announcing that we will be closing Hawthorn at the end of the month.

“Unfortunately, after much consideration, we don’t feel it’s possible to continue trading given the current market conditions. I sincerely hope that with time, our local high streets will return to their former glory but as it currently stands, continuing to trade just isn’t sustainable.

“I’m exceptionally proud of the things we’ve achieved here at Hawthorn, from outstanding reviews in national newspapers to being included in the Michelin Guide, The Good Food Guide’s 100 Best Local Restaurants, OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants for 2023, and most recently being listed in SquareMeal’s Top 100 London Restaurants 2024.

“None of this would be possible without my phenomenal team, to whom I am exceptionally grateful for their tireless hard work and support. We’re a small team with no financial backing that took on a huge challenge in opening a fully independent, local neighbourhood restaurant and I will look back with immense pride at what we achieved together.”

Hunter, who is also head chef at Holland & Holland Shooting Grounds in Northwood, opened Hawthorn in February 2023 on the site that previously housed Nigel Platts-Martin and Bruce Poole’s renowned restaurant The Glasshouse.

Billed as a ‘refined neighbourhood restaurant’​​, Hawthorn serves a menu of modern European dishes using predominantly British seasonal ingredients.

“This isn’t the end of the road,” Hunter added.

“I look forward to a bright future and hopefully, seeing you all again soon.”