BBC chef forced to close Michelin star restaurant after 8 years

London's restaurant scene received the shocking news that a top BBC chef will be closing down his two Michelin-starred restaurants after eight years in the business. French chef Claude Bosi, a familiar face on our TV screens, confessed that he is "unable to reach a resolution" regarding his famed South Kensington eatery. The 52-year-old took to Instagram to make the announcement, sharing the news of its complete closure.

The Michelin-starred restaurant specialises in seafood and oysters and has been open to the public since 2017. However, its time in the capital has come to an abrupt end, as the chef, along with his wife Lucy, told fans of the food spot's closure yesterday.

They stated: "It is with deep sadness that we announce Claude Bosi Restaurant ceased trading on the 25th August, and the Oyster Bar will close after service on 31st August.

"Despite our very best efforts, we were unable to reach a resolution with our partners and landlords that would allow Michelin House to move into its next chapter."

Their statement explains that any customers who have bookings in place after this date, will be automatically cancelled. They added: "We are truly sorry for any disappointment this may cause."

In addition to this restaurant, situated in the old Michelin building, Bosi has a number of other business ventures, including Brooklands at The Peninsula London and Josephine in Chelsea and Marylebone. The chef explained that his team and he will now dedicate their time to these locations.

The official statement further explained this: "Our foremost priority now is our team. We are personally committed to ensuring that every member of staff is fully supported and guided into new opportunities within our group.

"We are deeply grateful for the incredible support we have received over the years. It has been an honour to be part of the Michelin House story and a privilege to share the journey with you."

Restaurantgoers are disappointed to hear the news and have shared their feelings online. One writes, "Tragic news for your wonderful crew, and all the best to all of them for the future."

Another person shared: "So sad to hear this - the best meal I have ever eaten was there." While someone else wrote: "The Oyster Bar is one of my favourite restaurants, and your staff are always so lovely."

Equally disappointed, a user commented: "Very sad for you all and a huge loss to all your loyal customers. Wishing you the very best."

Many customers were familiar with the chef, Bosi, thanks to his numerous TV appearances on the likes of BBC's Saturday Kitchen. His segments saw him cooking alongside James Martin in 2012 and recently, preparing a delicious saucisson brioche in 2024.

Not to mention, he owned another restaurant, Hibiscus, which also ceased operation. This restaurant was at the centre of a MasterChef: The Professionals semi-final. The episode aired in 2014 for the show's seventh series and saw contestants take on a three-hour lunch at his renowned Mayfair eatery. Part of this experience included chefs cooking up Bosi's signature roast squab pigeon dish.

The news of this closure makes it Bosi's second Michelin-starred establishment to close this year in London. The unfortunate closure before this saw the capital bid farewell to yet another French restaurant, Le Dame De Pic, by the French chef Anne-Sophie Pic.