Diners still have a month to enjoy the homemade pasta
Pophams has been a mainstay of London Fields since 2019(Image: Alexandr Spatari/Getty Images)
A popular restaurant serving up “amazing” pasta in Hackney will shut next month as increasing costs prove to be a “huge challenge.” Pophams, in London Fields, will bid farewell to its Italian eatery on Thursday, October 30 – just six years after first opening on Richmond Road.
Confirming the “very difficult” news on Instagram, owner Ollie Gold said the 45-seat spot has become “increasingly hard to maintain”, as price hikes continue to plague hospitality venues. A statement reads: “The rising costs of produce, general bills, rent, and labour have placed enormous pressure on this side of the business, while the unpredictable nature of services in the early week has made it difficult to achieve the consistency needed to sustain the restaurant in the long term.
“…That said, the experience has also been hugely rewarding. Creating a space where people could come together to enjoy great food, and working alongside such a talented and dedicated team, has been something we’re incredibly proud of.”
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The sad post goes on to thank their “special” head chefs and “wonderful” team, past and present, adding: “Every service, every dish, and every warm welcome you created made the restaurant what it was.” Whilst Pophams is perhaps better known for its stellar pastries and coffee, the evening eatery has proven a hit with locals and critics alike, including the Michelin guide.
Diners can enjoy mouth-watering dishes such as mortadella-stuffed parcels and veal ravioli, as well as a range of small plates and classic desserts. The menu changes regularly but ranges from around £4 – £20 an item.
News of the restaurant’s closure has left many people heartbroken, with some claiming Pophams was home to some of the capital’s best pasta. One disappointed fan said: “Gutted to read this, have had so many wonderful dinners with you all from the first service, sitting outside during lockdown, many suppers with my pasta pal and will definitely be there to say a final farewell.”
Another added: “Truly some of the most inventive and delicious pasta was thanks to you! I’m so sad but it’s completely understandable.”, whilst a third wrote: “I am so sad to see this – I absolutely love the restaurant and have had some delightful meals, memories, and service there.”
Pophams has bakery branches in Islington and Victoria Park, as well as London Fields. These, as well as Pophams Home, will continue as normal.
It’s estimated the UK will see a net loss of around 3,000 hospitality venues by the end of 2025, according to figures from the Hospitality Market Monitor published by industry experts CGA by NIQ and AlixPartners. Earlier this summer, a busy Camden restaurant announced it will close due to rising costs, whilst Margot, an Italian spot lauded by Michelin, shut as a result of poor trading conditions.
You can find Pophams Pasta Restaurant at 197 Richmond Road, E8 3NJ until October 30.
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Dining and Cooking