Norse announces immediate closure after four years
Director Paul Rawlinson posted a widely-shared blog in January admitting the restaurant had been struggling and the numbers "hadn't been adding up".
Norse, which is recommended in the Michelin Guide, introduced an a la carte format and “early bird” offer alongside its tasting menu in a bid to improve trade, but it failed to make an impact.
A statement on Norse’s website says: “In January we changed our format and launched a new style of menu that gave us hope, but we simply haven’t been able to attract the number of guests that a business like Norse requires on a consistent basis.
“The team deserve huge plaudits for their hard work over the last 4+ years, we truly believe the food and service is as good right now as it has ever been. The closure is not a reflection on the talent or the effort of the people working in the business on a daily basis – right up until the last service the feedback has been very positive. We’re closing a restaurant that many people love.”
Norse launched as an evening pop-up in a Harrogate café in 2014 and relocated to its first permanent site in the town last year after crowdfunding more than £20,000.
An email announcing the closure highlighted the fact that both Jamie’s Italian and Byron had closed in Harrogate in recent months, while The Ivy Brasserie appeared to be trading well.
“I don’t blame the failure of the restaurant on conditions within the industry, Brexit or any other external factors,” says Rawlinson.
“I had a talented team and a lovely space – I just didn’t do a good enough job of telling our story and convincing people to step through the doors.
“Life in town centres is tough right now and independent shops, restaurants and businesses need our continued support. It was a pleasure to feed and host so many happy people over the years, it’s sad for all involved that this is how it ends.”
