EDINBURGH-born Masterchef star Tom Kitchin has been forced to close his Bruntsfield restaurant KORA, citing the current economic climate for its struggles.
The chef, who is Scotland’s youngest winner of a Michelin Star, released a heartfelt statement, saying that they have no option but to close the restaurant.
Tom also owns three sister venues; the Kitchin, The Scran & Scallie, and The Bonnie Badger.
KORA is termed a “nature to plate restaurant”, with an emphasis on creating dishes using fresh Scottish seasonal produce.
The closure comes alongside news that Henry Dobson, former chef at three Michelin Star Danish restaurant Noma, is set to open a Stockbridge eatery.
It is said to be “linked to Henry’s family farm and will be working exclusively with Scottish produce, much of which will be sourced from the farm”.
The restaurant, called Moss, will be “serving hyper creative and super delicious food in an informal and accessible format, all whilst constantly pushing the limits of what is possible with Scottish ingredients”.
Copenhagen’s Noma was voted “best restaurant in the world” in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2014, and 2021 before temporarily closing at the end of last year.
The “farm to table” restaurant will seat 26 people, who can enjoy its entirely Scotland-sourced menu when it opens on 29 January.
In a statement posted on social media yesterday, the KORA team said: “Thank you to everyone who has supported KORA over the years.
“We have made the very tough decision to wrap KORA up at the end of this month..
“KORA by Tom Kitchin has always been a restaurant which we felt really passionate about and we are proud of the great food, service and experiences we have provided to our guests over the past few years.
“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.
“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.
“All unexpired KORA gift vouchers purchased will be honoured in our sister venues as we really value your support.
“Thank you to everyone who made KORA by Tom Kitchin such a special, happy place to so many of us.
“Thank you, Bruntsfield. The memories will always live on. With love, Tom Kitchin and the KORA team.”
