A BBC‑featured chef has stunned the nation by abruptly closing down his UK Top 100 restaurant.
His announcement, posted on social media, admitted bluntly: “it hasn’t been working for some time.”
Instagram/@ethicalchefDeri Reed has become known for his ethical approach to cooking[/caption]
From the red‑carpet glow of Great British Menu to the grit of real‑world restaurant ownership, Deri Reed has called time on The Warren.
His eatery in Carmarthen, Wales, has long enjoyed acclaim—and not just from the critics.
Firmly lodged in the UK’s Top 100, it became a favourite dining spot in the heart of the Welsh town.
But as the post revealed, the relentless climb of costs has been an uphill battle.
In a post on Instagram, Deri wrote: “We’re Closing – it’s taken me a long time to write this announcement, as it’s something I’ve been putting off for too long.
“For those of you who know me well, you’ll know how much weight I’ve carried in running The Warren.
“Behind the front, there’s a man doing his best to keep afloat a business built on strong human and environmental ethics, while also trying to look after himself, his relationships, his home and his community.
“The truth is, it hasn’t been working for me for some time.”
He told customers that The Warren would be “going into hibernation for a little while” after service on September 21.
“I don’t see this as an ending. I imagine a future where this space is alive with new collaborations, where community food projects have a home here, and where The Warren continues to make noise from the streets of Carmarthen,” he added.
“With the support of some brilliant people and organisations, I’ll be exploring what that could look like.
“In the meantime, our team is ready to give you the best of what we’ve got over the next five weeks.
“So please do come in, enjoy a meal with us, use any vouchers you’ve been holding onto, and help us celebrate the wonderful achievements we’ve made together so far.”
Many took to social media to express their heartbreak, with one writing: “Ah I’m so sad to read this! But you always have to do what’s best for you.”
“It’s really tough having ethics in the hospitality business, or indeed just having an independent hospitality business- well done for sticking to your principles and I sincerely hope there’s a phoenix rising soon!”
Another echoed: “So sad to read this and excited to see what is next for you… sending all the love and encouragement to you.”
Deri won Chef of the Year at the Food Made Good awards in 2019, and is also a key member of the Cegin Hedyn – a community kitchen and canteen in Camarthen.
It first opened in 2022 and serves plant-based, canteen-style lunches to diners who pay what they can.
He was also a BBC Morning Live Community Food Champion in 2024 and has made countless TV appearances.
Instagram/@ethicalchefThe chef said the business hadn’t been working for a ‘long time’[/caption]
What is happening to the hospitality industry?
By Laura McGuire, consumer reporter
MANY Food and drink chains have been struggling in recently as the cost of living has led to fewer people spending on eating out.
Businesses had been struggling to bounce back after the pandemic, only to be hit with soaring energy bills and inflation.
Multiple chains have been affected, resulting in big-name brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny’s closing branches.
Some chains have not survived, Byron Burger fell into administration last year, with owners saying it would result in the loss of over 200 jobs.
Pizza giant, Papa Johns is shutting down 43 of its stores soon.
Tasty, the owner of Wildwood, said it will shut sites as part of major restructuring plans
Published: [#item_custom_pubDate]
