A popular restaurant in London has closed down, leaving many customers 'gutted'. The owners of Morito, a tapas restaurant on Hackney Road, spoke about the 'significant challenges' facing the hospitality industry as it announced the closure.
Closure After a Decade
Opened in 2016, the East London site was beloved by customers for its small plates. The restaurant was run by husband and wife, Sam and Sam Clark. Although the Hackney location has closed, the Moro restaurant and the Morito site in Exmouth Market will continue operating.
The closure on June 14 was revealed in a post on the restaurant's Instagram page, where the owners explained that the decision had been difficult to make.
Owners' Statement
In the post, the owners said: 'After 10 wonderful years, Sunday was our last service at Morito Hackney Road, marking the end of a significant chapter as we closed the doors.'
'What we have built goes far beyond a restaurant – it's been a home for our team, a place of connection for our guests and a space filled with energy, creativity and generosity every day.'
'There is so much to celebrate: our incredible staff, our loyal customers, the friendships formed, dishes shared and memories created.'
'At the same time, it's no secret that the hospitality industry has been facing sustained and significant challenges. Like many others, our Hackney location has been increasingly affected, despite our best efforts.'
Acclaimed Reputation
Morito had been named one of the best restaurants in London by The Times restaurant critic Giles Coren. Several social media users quickly flocked to the comment section of the post, with many 'gutted' to bid goodbye to the popular tapas spot, the Sun reports.
Customer Reactions
One of the customers wrote: 'Gutted! Loved this spot and is where I took my future wife on our first date.'
Another one commented: 'Gutted, so many unforgettable memories. It felt like home when we lived by the corner a few years ago.'
A third user wrote: 'Sad to hear this. I remember how excited I was when you first opened. Thank you for the fun times.'
A fourth user said: 'So sad to hear this. We have had so many amazing evenings with you from the first week you opened. Thank you for all the wonderful food, hospitality and memories.'
