Fenn to close due to staff shortages

Fenn restaurant in London’s Fulham has announced it will close at the end of next month due to staff shortages that are making it “untenable” for the business to stay open.

Luke Wasserman, Toby Neill and Johnnie Crowe, who are also the team behind Restaurant St Barts in London’s Farringdon, opened Fenn in April 2021 with the aim of showcasing local, small-scale producers and suppliers.

At the time, The Caterer had reported that Fenn first launched as a 14-cover outdoor terrace due to government restrictions. The additional 30-cover dining room opened over a month after the initial launch as a result of the pandemic.

Fenn will will close its doors permenantly after its final service on 29 April. Kitchen and front of house staff have been invited to take on roles across the group’s other sites, which include Nest in London’s Hackney.

A statement on the Fenn website read: “Fenn gained a loyal following among south west London residents as well as food lovers across the capital. However, with staffing shortages plaguing the industry since the pandemic, keeping the restaurant open has become untenable.

“We want to thank all our loyal customers for your support of Fenn over the last two years and we hope to see you again in the next few weeks.”

A spokesperson for the trio added: “Co-founders Luke, Toby and Johnnie are clear in their belief that when one door closes, another opens - with a number of exciting projects on the horizon.”