World Service Nottingham announces shock closure after 24 years

World Service Restaurant, one of Nottingham’s leading fine dining establishments has announced its shock closure on social media.

The multi-award-winning eatery holds two AA Rosettes for Culinary Excellence and a Notable Wine List in this year’s AA accolades.

Amongst reasons cited for the closure, the restaurant said ‘it was no longer easy to provide fine dining at an affordable cost.’

The full announcement is as follows:

World Service Nottingham Restaurant closing announcement

‘With great sadness, World Service will be closing on the 3rd of August - on our 24th Birthday.

‘Along with other famous chef patrons who've had to close their restaurants, we, who have been welcoming guests for nearly a quarter of a century, have also experienced similar changes in the market. It is no longer easy to provide fine dining at an affordable cost.

‘We want to thank all of our amazing customers from the bottom of our hearts. So many of you have supported us from the very start and allowed us to continue this amazing journey. Many of you arrived as guests and have left as friends. Sincerely, thank you.

‘Huge gratitude goes to the wonderful staff that have passed through our doors. The loyalty, dedication and enthusiasm you’ve all shown has been phenomenal. One of the most touching moments has been meeting so many old faces and hearing how much working at World Service left its mark on you, with memories and friendships to last a lifetime. We can assure you that you all have left an indelible mark on World Service as well. On many occasions, it’s been referred to as a family. Never a truer word has been said.

‘Keeping at the forefront of the Nottingham restaurant scene for 24 years is no mean feat. We feel incredibly proud and honoured to be seen as a restaurant that helped change the landscape of modern fine dining and considered an institution. There are so many happy moments to remember. Our successes at the Nottingham Restaurant Awards. Entries in all acclaimed eating-out guides; The Michelin Guide & the AA Guide to name a few. NYE parties that will live long in the memory. The marriage of many beautiful couples. It is endless!

‘Writing this provokes such a spectrum of emotions - from joyful memories to sadness that it’s all over. But, as they say, all good things must come to an end.

‘So we have almost two months left! We would like nothing more than to welcome you through our iconic red doorway one last time. Help us celebrate the wonderful times & bring back memories of the special occasions you’ve shared with us over the years. Thank you all for the wonderful journey - It’s been a hell of a ride.’

Nottingham foodies react to shock news

Fans reacted with shock, many left saddened by the news.

@StickAndRibbon, a Nottingham boutique wrote: ‘So sad to hear this news. Another iconic Nottingham business closing its doors. We had our wedding meal with you, happy memories of a special day. Thanks for all the lovely times.’

@HomemadeCafe, a fellow food business wrote: ‘Woah! Now that is the end of an era… enjoy the last few months, well done on being a key part of the Nottingham food scene for so long.’

@InstantFlower, a good food appreciator wrote: ‘Sorry to hear this! I take many memories away though and thank your team for that. All the best, guys. X’

Line of Duty actress Vicky McClure was among the restaurant’s fans to share her shock at the news.

She wrote: “This is very sad to hear! Thank you for so many delicious meals, top service and great memories over the years. Xx”

People still have time to enjoy a last meal at World Service Nottingham, as the final date for service is Saturday, August 3, 2024.

Location: World Service Restaurant, Newdigate House, Castle Gate, Nottingham NG1 6AF

For more information and to book a table visit the restaurant’s website by clicking here.