Will Ellner closes family restaurant Joanna's after 45 years trading

In a heartfelt Instagram post​​, Ellner, who also runs the two-strong Bancone​​ restaurant group, said Joanna's had been unable to overcome the huge economic challenges currently facing businesses across the hospitality sector.

The restaurant's last service was Friday 14 January.

“It is with the heaviest of hearts that I have decided to close Joanna’s,” Ellner said.

“Current economic conditions are creating huge difficulties, especially in the hospitality industry and these challenges are unfortunately too much for us as a small business to overcome, which has led me to make this difficult decision.”

Joanna's was opened in 1978 by John and Christina Ellner and was considered something of a local institution. While the restaurant's original focus was largely inspired by American casual dining, the restaurant evolved with the times and took its cues primarily from European cuisine in its later year.

The Harden's Guide 2022​ described its as a 'local lively bistro in the heart of Crystal Palace'. 

“If you get the right table you have gorgeous views north over the London skyline,” it said.

“It’s been around since 1978 but there is a reason it’s stayed for so long – it’s always an excellent experience, be it for brunch, lunch or dinner.”

Ellner, who took over the running of Joanna's in 2003, thanked the restaurant's staff, past and present, for their service; and also paid tribute to its many regulars.

“The restaurant has been a second home to so many of you over the last 45 years,” he said.

“Colleagues and guests celebrating birthdays, engagements, weddings, anniversaries, and more.”