BBC MasterChef star forced to close Michelin-hailed restaurant in 'difficult decision'

By Jennie Buzaglo, Showbiz Reporter

Tom Kitchin announced he is closing one of his restaurants (Image: Getty Images)

Tom Kitchin has made the "difficult" decision to close one of his restaurants in Edinburgh.

The celebrity chef, 47, announced the sudden closure of his Michelin-hailed restaurant, Kora, in a heartfelt Instagram post on Monday (January 13).

He began: "We have made the very tough decision to wrap Kora up at the end of this month. Our regular diners and our suppliers have been instrumental in Kora’s success.

"Our incredible team has really shown visitors to Edinburgh how incredible Scottish fare is and how proud we are to promote Scottish hospitality."

Kitchin assured his followers that this is not the end of Kora, but said the restaurant has faced a challenging "current economic climate" which has led to its closure.

Kora has faced a challenging "current economic climate" which has led to its closure (Image: Instagram/Tom Kitchin)

He continued: "We have every intention to bring the Kora concept back to Edinburgh one day, but there is no hiding that the current economic climate contributes to this difficult decision.

"We have no option but to exercise our lease break clause which is now due."

Kitchin, who became Scotland's youngest winner of a Michelin star at the age of 29, concluded by expressing his gratitude, saying: "Thank you to everyone who made Kora by Tom Kitchin such a special, happy place for so many of us. Thank you, Bruntsfield. The memories will always live on."

The celebrated chef and his wife Michaela launched KORA in Bruntsfield during spring 2022, marking their fourth local establishment alongside The Scran and Scallie, The Kitchin, and The Bonnie Badger located in Gullane, East Lothian.

Kitchin has appeared on a number of BBC shows, including MasterChef (Image: BBC/Shine TV)

The restaurant was set up in the former site of their Southside Scran venue and received glowing reviews by the Michelin guide.

Kitchin, who has appeared on a number of BBC shows such as MasterChef and Saturday Kitchen, has said anyone with unused Kora gift vouchers will be able to use them at its sister venues.

The announcement devastated fans as they flocked to the comments to react to the sad news.

"Tragic loss to Bruntsfield," wrote one person as another posted: "Really sad to read this, it must have been such a difficult decision.

A third agreed: "We are soooo sad to hear that. Absolutely loved everything about Kora."

A fourth echoed: "Sad news. Such wonderful memories there of the staff and food and good times with friends. Best wishes to all in the future."