A MASTERCHEF winner will pull the shutters on their award-winning Michelin-backed restaurant for the final time today.
Stu Deeley previously told fans “it’s time for me to move on” as he prepared for the arrival of his third child.
After three years in business, Smoke in Hampton Manor, Birmingham will close today.
Stu started out working as a sous chef at Peel’s, a fellow restaurant which shut down in 2022.
He opened his beloved Smoke in 2021 and it quickly achieved three AA rosettes and a recommendation in the Michelin Guide.
The respected cook also became the executive chef at Laghi’s in Edgbaston.
But Hampton Manor confirmed Smoke’s tragic closure.
A spokesperson said on social media: “As an estate, we’re constantly evolving and we’re excited to share that 2025 will be no exception.
“On February 27, we’re opening Kynd, a new, produce-led restaurant, celebrating the joy of food through simple, thoughtful cooking.
“From our own Michelin-starred chef, David Taylor, expect generous dishes, rooted in comfort, heritage and flavour.
“Kynd will open on the current site of Smoke and after four soul-filled years on the estate, Stuart Deeley will be moving on from Hampton Manor.
“We’re hugely grateful for Stu’s contribution to the estate throughout his time with us.
“Putting the old furnace house on the map, Stu has led Smoke from strength to strength, achieving three AA rosettes, some exceptional reviews and gaining a sizeable fan club.”
Stu also relayed the news to fans on Instagram.
He wrote: “All good things must come to an end! After nearly four years at Hampton Manor and over three years of Smoke, it’s time for me to move on.
“It wasn’t an easy decision to make. After winning Masterchef in 2019. Then, immediately going into a pandemic.
“When Smoke opened in August 2021, it really did become a home away from home.
“Seeing the amazing people that have passed through the team and the encouragement we have received from guests and guides alike, and I’m over the moon to say we are still as busy as ever.
“Thank you to James and Fjona for the opportunity to help make smoke become what it is today. Thank you to the team past and present at smoke and the wider estate.
“I will be cooking NYE at the manor, and Smoke will continue as normal until February 23.
“What’s next for Smoke’s location will be amazing as James and Fjona will never settle for anything less. I will let you all in on what’s next when the times are right, but for now, we have baby Deeley on the way.”
His fans hailed the top chef’s work in the comments.
One penned: “So glad I got to eat there last month. Always wanted to meet you and it finally came true. Good luck with your future plans. True talent.”
“Gutted – it’s an absolutely brilliant restaurant! Have loved eating your food mate. Looking forward to seeing what’s next,” added another.
A third agreed: “Some of the best food I’ve ever tasted has been in Smoke. All the best for the future!”
“Well done Stu and congratulations. Looking forward to seeing what you do next,” shared someone else.
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.