‘Heartbroken’ owners announce restaurant closure due to energy crisis

The “heartbroken” owners of a restaurant have announced that its final service will take place on Friday.

Hoba began as a market stall, became a pop-up in the likes of Kongs, and opened their first bricks and mortar premises in March in the former Pizza Hut on St Augustine’s Parade.

Hope Bainbridge and Annie Faulkner founded Hoba after being inspired by Berlin’s kebab houses during a visit, hoping to recreate the meaty German staple back home in the UK.

The pair said that they “can’t imagine a life without” their restaurant but they have “had the rug pulled from under” them due to the energy crisis.

“Despite all the advice, negotiations and battles we’ve fought, we cannot find a way to move past our current situation and absorb these costs.”

Hoba’s squeaky chicken kebab – photo: Martin Booth

In a statement on social media, Hoba co-foudners Hope and Annie wrote that “from starting off as a little market stall five years ago, through our pop-up years to opening a beautiful restaurant in the city centre, Hoba has been a wonderful success”.

“It’s been the most MAD journey, filled with a lot of love, fun, tears and a heck of a lot of kebabs.

“But sadly Hoba has been hit hard by the energy crisis. Despite all the advice, negotiations and battles we’ve fought, we cannot find a way to move past our current situation and absorb these costs.

“Not only this, the coming months are looking so hard for hospitality with rising costs from suppliers and the cost of living crisis affecting public spending.

“All things considered, we’ve come to the decision that we have to close. Simply, we’ve had the rug pulled from under us.

“We have survived and thrived throughout our life, adapting and evolving, growing Hoba into something magical and greatly loved. We even made it on the blooming telly!

“We couldn’t have asked for a more special, hardworking, loyal team who were the heart of Hoba.

“We are heartbroken. Hoba was a dream come true – we can’t imagine a life without it. But this energy crisis has happened and we have to accept our reality.”

“Our last day will be this Friday 23rd December. So come on down, give us a hug and cry over your kebab (it’s cathartic, trust us – we’ve tried it).

“Everything must go! We’ll go out with a bang and our heads held high. Thank you for all the love and support over the years.”

Hoba began life as a market stall – photo: Hoba

Hoba fans have reacted with sadness to the shock news.

On Facebook, Tulsi Elizabeth wrote:  “This is heartbreaking. I’m so sorry you are in this position. I’m going to try and come for lunch tomorrow. Best vegan kebabs, great staff, all round fab place.”

Tim Popple said on Instagram: “Awful news. Hoba is such an incredible place – pre-afternoon drinking filler, hungover remedy, pre-theatre bite. Always tasty, always great value, always fab service. We’ll miss everything about you.”

And street food traders For Mice & Men said: “Oh guys. This so sad to read. Big love to you both. Stay proud of the little gem you created.”

Main photo: Martin Booth

Read next:

• Bristol’s best new food & drink openings of 2022
• Hoba, St Augustine’s Parade: ‘Kebabs elevated to greatness’ – restaurant review
• Bristol brewery stops production

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