High-flying Nottingham restaurant Alchemilla has cut its staff, reduced its menu and issued a plea for customers to return as it struggles for survival in tough trading conditions.

“We need you,” the restaurant said in an email. “The current economic crisis has taken a severe toll on our ability to stay afloat and continue creating a unique dining experience. We’re pushing through but we need your continued support.“

The business is now operating with a reduced team, and has restructed its menu to offer a single 5-course option in place of the usual 7 or 10 courses.

Launched six years ago in Victorian former coach house by ex-Sat Bains chef Alex Bond, Alchemilla is placed at number 42 in the 2023 Harden’s 100 list of Britain’s best restaurants. Our guide praised Alex’s “mind-blowing experimental food” and the “totally unique” venue.

Alex blamed a combination of rising overheads and people eating out less often for the industry’s crisis. “It’s a tough time for everyone. Restaurants are absorbing costs and not passing them on to the consumer as there is only so much people are willing to pay or can afford.”