MasterChef star steps down from award-winning restaurant as it prepares to permanently close

After its head chef revealed he was leaving, an award-winning restaurant is going to shut down for good.

The decision was revealed on social media, stunning fans. However, the eatery, with former MasterChef star Josh Whitehead as head chef, confirmed they had come to the “tough decision” to call it quits. Kino, based in the Grade II listed building that is next to the Leeds Grand Theatre, first appeared in 2022. However, two and a half years later, the restaurant has been declared closed.

The Instagram upload by the restaurant, which described itself as a “bit French, a bit British and a lot Yorkshire”, said: “Some very sad news to share with you… Unfortunately, we’ll be closing our doors on 21 December.

” We’ve had a blast the last two and a half years, but sadly just couldn’t make it work. It’s been a really difficult decision. We’re looking at new opportunities to use our big, beautiful space, but for now it’s goodbye. “

They then thanked their customers for their support and urged them to make a final appearance with them in the upcoming weeks.

Whitehead, who became a member of the company in 2023, stated that he was ready to step down and concentrate on starting his own business. Following the news of the closure, he said:” I thought it was time to move on to the next stage of my career. I just wanted to try and make one]a pie shop] happen. I’m excited to focus on creating amazing handmade pies, terrines, and paté en croute, all using sustainable, local ingredients. “

He said, “I’m still trying to figure out what the hell is going on right now and settle into self-employment is good and proper, there will be pies, there will be croûtes, and there will be chaos, as soon as I’ve figured out the ordering system, do your worst,” while posting an image of himself in a dressing gown sipping on a beer while sat in front of a pie.

His new business, Finer Pleasures, comes after he had helped the restaurant win the Best Sustainability award at the 2024 Oliver Awards and launched the city’s first Pastry Club.

He rose through the ranks on MasterChef: The Professionals in 2016. He was eliminated at the semi-final stages. However, he now is focusing his attention on growing his business through bespoke pie orders, catering, and pop-up events.

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Source: Mirror