Heston Blumenthal’s The Fat Duck closes temporarily after Coronavirus outbreak among staff

In an email sent to customers yesterday (14 October), the Bray restaurant’s reservations team confirmed that bookings due to take place over the coming fortnight would not go ahead as all employees will be self-isolating. 

It is understood to be the first example of a Michelin-starred restaurant in the country being affected by such an outbreak.

The email to diners read: “As we all know only too well, [the] Coronavirus pandemic is extremely difficult to control and stop spreading.

"Unfortunately, we have now been affected, in the past few days, a number of employees have returned positive tests, which has resulted in them self-isolating at home.

"We want to be in front of the situation, so we are working closely with the relevant organisations and local authorities, and will continue to monitor the situation during this time.

“It remains a very difficult time for everyone and we are disappointed we’ve had to temporarily stop doing what we love, which is welcoming our guests to our restaurant.

"We thank you for your understanding and we do apologise for any inconvenience or disappointment caused.”

The self-imposed 'circuit breaker' started on October 14, and will last for at least two weeks.