The struggles of New Zealand’s hospitality industry continue with another local restaurant announcing it’s made the decision to close.
5Loaves & 2Fish Japanese Restaurant in Howick has been described by locals in the past year as a “hidden gem”, “sensational”, “great value for money”, and “beautifully presented”.
But today, September 25, it’s taken to Facebook to announce its permanent closure.
The post is addressed to its “valued customers” and says: “We announce the permanent closure of 5Loaves 2Fish Japanese restaurant,
“After much consideration, we have made this difficult decision to close our restaurant.
“We want to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has supported us for nearly two years – our loyal customer, dedicated staff, and the wonderful community that made 5Loaves 2Fish [a] special place.
“Your support and kindness will never be forgotten. Though this chapter has come to an end, we cherish the memories we’ve made together.
“Thank you for being a part of our journey. Wishing you all the very best, head chef Amy HXL Newsman and [the] 5Loaves 2Fish team.”
The closure follows the recent news two eateries at Half Moon Bay Marina, Grangers Taphouse and Kitchen and Marina Cantina, have recently changed hands as the companies that previously owned them had gone into liquidation.
Cooke and Henry Co Limited, trading as Grangers Taphouse and Kitchen, and Italian Stallion Limited, trading as Marina Cantina, were placed into liquidation on September 11, as was The Franklin Limited, trading as The Franklin and which is located in Beachlands.
All three eateries remain open under new management.
Confusion had been growing in the local community over the situation at Grangers and Marina Cantina in recent months, with speculation they were shutting due to issues with their leases.
Granger’s Facebook page is full of comments from people asking if it’s open or is going to close.
The changing circumstances at 5Loaves & 2Fish Japanese Restaurant, Grangers Taphouse and Kitchen and Marina Cantina follows the shock news the company behind iconic eatery Fisher House, in Highbrook, was placed into liquidation on August 1.
The last year has been tough for New Zealand’s hospitality industry, with numerous restaurants and eateries closing as the situation is labelled a “crisis” by the sector.
Among the more well-known ones that have closed so far this year in Auckland are SPQR, Conch Kitchen and Bar, and Chapel Bar and Bistro.
