Ex-Masterchef star’s bar suddenly shuts days after winning major award

A venue run by an ex-Masterchef star is suddenly shutting its doors just days after winning a major award in the latest grim sign for Australia’s hospitality industry.

Jamie Fleming’s venue Alba Bar and Deli in Burnett Lane, Brisbane made the announcement on Instagram that Saturday night would be its last night of operating.

He was a contestant in Season 6 of MasterChef in 2014 and opened the Brisbane venue in 20219, shortly before the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. 

‘Unfortunately economic pressures as well as having terrible timing with opening (just before the pandemic) means we have had to make this heart wrenching decision,’ the post said.

‘We are a small team and always tried to offer the best quality service and produce.

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‘Unfortunately with prices of everything going up and little support, there is unfortunately only one clear end.’

Alba’s closure follows just days after it was named Queensland’s best bar by hospitality website Boothby.

The outlet’s farewell statement thanked ‘everyone that has helped bring Alba to life. From the team members, suppliers, friends and anyone who came through the door, you have helped bring something amazing to life.’

In a reference to the very difficult times the industry is facing due to the cost of living crisis, Alba acknowledged others in the business who are also doing it tough. 

‘We have always had huge support from those we respect and love the most, our peers. 

‘Without your support, Alba would have been another statistic and instead, we have been given the opportunity to swing for the fences and continue to hit the mark.’

Alba said it had been its ‘pleasure serving, feeding, laughing and dancing with every single one of you. 

‘Whether we are a bar you eat well at, or a restaurant you get lit at we still don’t know. What we do know is we are Alba and we have never been anything else.’

The emotional statement ended by saying ‘This won’t be the last you see of us. Promise … Peace out.’

The Brisbane venue is the latest in a string of high-profile casualties in the restaurant business in recent months.

In May, beloved Sydney restaurant Tetsuya’s announced it would be permanently closing down after 37 years of delighting Australian foodies.

The fine dining spot will close its doors permanently on 31 July, 2024, despite originally hoping to relocate elsewhere. 

Following that blow, Kylie Kwong revealed she was closing down her iconic restaurant Lucky Kwong after being open for 24 years.