Pergola Paddington Closing, A Shift in London\’s Dining Scene

London’s culinary landscape is witnessing another change as the renowned ​​Pergola Paddington​​ prepares to serve its final dishes. This rooftop venue, known for its vibrant atmosphere and iconic events, will close its doors on January 20, 2024, after six and a half years of operation 🏙️.

​​Why Closure Happened​​

The announcement, made via Instagram, did not explicitly detail the reasons behind the closure. However, it aligns with a broader trend of hospitality venues facing challenges. Notably, this closure was part of a wave that included other establishments like Kindle in Cardiff, Green’s in Didsbury, and the Pig and Whistle in Beverley, all of which cited ​​financial difficulties​​ as reasons for shutting down 📉.

For Pergola Paddington, the parent company, Incipio Group, seems to be focusing resources on its other ventures. Despite this closure, Incipio continues to operate eight other venues, including The Libertine in the City, Palm House in Victoria, and the recently launched 411 in Angel. The group, which secured new investment in 2022 for a ‘healthy pipeline’ of additional sites, appears to be ​​consolidating its portfolio​​.

​​A Look Back at the Rooftop Gem​​

Since opening in July 2017, Pergola Paddington quickly became a favorite. It wasn’t just a place to eat; it was an experience. With an capacity for 850 people, it played host to some of London’s most famous parties, from ‘Pergola Paraiso’ to ‘Deck the Halls’ 🎉.

Its unique appeal lay in transforming a rooftop space into a lush, social dining haven. The venue offered a shared-plates menu from various restaurant pop-ups, allowing guests to enjoy a variety of cuisines in a relaxed, garden-inspired setting under retractable roofs—a perfect blend for summer evenings and cozy winter gatherings.

​​The Industry’s Wider Challenges​​

Pergola Paddington’s closure reflects broader issues within the hospitality sector. Rising operational costs, changing consumer habits, and the lingering economic impacts of recent global events have created a ​​perfect storm​​ for many restaurants and bars 💥.

This isn’t isolated. Other establishments, like Paddington’s NOTA, have also recently closed, with chefs citing industry changes, the end of leases, and a desire to consolidate teams and resources under one roof as contributing factors.

​​What’s Next for the Pergola Brand?​​

While the Paddington location is closing, the Pergola name will live on. Incipio Group has confirmed plans for ‘Pergola on the Wharf’ and another “exciting space to be announced soon” 🔜.

The group’s strategy seems to involve adapting to market conditions by refreshing its concepts and investing in locations with potentially higher footfall or better growth prospects. This pragmatic approach is essential for survival in today’s competitive market.

​​A Final Celebration​​

To send off the venue in style, Pergola Paddington hosted a closing party on January 20th, featuring a lineup of special guest DJs. It was a final chance for loyal patrons to reminisce and celebrate the memories created there 🎧.

Its closure marks the end of an era for a beloved local hotspot. While its physical presence will be missed, the experiences it provided remain a testament to London’s ever-evolving, dynamic food scene.

The evolution of dining preferences continues to shape the city, with establishments like Pergola Paddington leaving a memorable imprint on their guests’ palates and parties.