Restaurant loved by Queen’s son announces closure and says ‘it’s been an honour’

A popular Italian restaurant in Birmingham loved by the Queen’s son has announced they will close for good next month after seven years. Laghi’s Deli, on Islington Row Middleway, will close after Saturday, August 10.

They shared a heartbreaking statement on social media on Saturday night (July 14) and called it ‘an honour to be part of the Brummie independent scene amongst some of the greats’.

It was only earlier this year that Laghi’s had impressed food writer Tom Parker Bowles, son of Queen Camilla, who gave it a rave review in the Mail on Sunday You Magazine.

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Tom said the pasta at Laghi’s was “seriously, as good as you’ll find at the likes of The River Cafe, Riva, Luca and Locanda Locatelli”, three highly-rated London restaurants. He added the Birmingham options are ‘a fraction of the price’ of those establishments.

“Yet again, Birmingham impresses,” he wrote of Laghi’s. “Yet another true Brummie beauty.”

When our reviewer Kirsty took a ‘sceptical Italian’ to dine there last year he was blown away – particularly by the rabbit ravioli in a truffle sauce. You can read our full review here.

The full post on Laghi’s Deli’s social media reads: “A message from Luca and The Laghi’s Team…. It’s with huge regret for us to announce that after more than seven years of Laghi’s we’ve taken the incredibly hard decision to close our doors.

“We’ve been battling the independent storm for a while now, and between dramatically increased overheads and the current climate, we’re no longer able to keep going. Our last service will be on Saturday, August 10, and our reservations are open until then so we’d love to see you, one last time.

“Whether you’ve joined us recently for our collaborations, or since day one of being Laghi’s Deli, we can’t thank you enough for your continued support. It’s truly been an hour to be part of the Brummie independent scene amongst some of the greatest. Big Love – Laghi’s x.”

The statement prompted dozens of comments from heartbroken diners. Yvonne said: “So sorry lovely place.” Ashley wrote: “So sorry. Always great food and wonderful hospitality.”

Darren commented: “So sad, when I was at home that’s the place I felt comfortable in. Wishing you all the best and I hope you open up somewhere else.”

Zoe posted: “Very sorry to hear this. I know how much hard work, passion and dedication not to mention blood sweat and tears went into it.”

And Juliette added: “So sorry to hear. You are unique in Brum and I have enjoyed visiting over the years for dinner, lunch and coffee. I’ll particularly miss having an Aperol Spritz while I peruse the menu! You’ll be missed. Best of luck for your future endeavours.”