The Ritz restaurant temporarily closed ‘until further notice’

The Ritz restaurant in London has been temporarily closed since 20 July “until further notice, due to unforeseen circumstances”, according to an email sent to guests with reservations.

The Daily Mail has reported staff were ordered to self-isolate by the NHS Test and Trace app.

The Michelin-starred restaurant, located within the 136-bedroom, five-red-AA-starred hotel in Mayfair, is overseen by executive chef John Williams and 2019 Roux Scholarship winner Spencer Metzger, who was recently promoted to head chef.

Williams joined the restaurant in 2004 and it won a star in the 2017 Michelin Guide Great Britain and Ireland, the same year the chef was recognised with the Cateys Special Award.

With his menus, Williams continues to build on the principles and beliefs of Auguste Escoffier, who opened the hotel in the 1890s with César Ritz, drawing inspiration from classic dishes and using seasonal British produce.

The Ritz did not respond to The Caterer’s request for comment by the time of publication.