One of the gems of the York dining scene is to close.
The Rattle Owl on Micklegate will serve up its last dishes on Saturday (5 August).
Opened ten years ago by Clarrie O’Callaghan, it has become a firm favourite among residents and visitors alike.
The closure comes when the restaurant is still at the top of its game. Leading chef Adam Jackson joined in May, and last year it was named in the Michelin food guide and earned two AA stars.
In a message on her website, Clarrie said: “I’m really proud of what has been achieved with the Rattle Owl during my time at 104 Micklegate.
“I first got the keys in July 2013 and many of you will know of the battles and delays to turn a long empty building into something lovely on a street which then had 14 empty properties.
“To see Micklegate evolve into a food destination may owe a bit to the leap I took back then.”
She added: “As a sole female proprietor, owning a restaurant has had its moments that will be etched on my memory forever.
“Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the love shown to my little project. I’m so touched that people really loved the food and the place. Your support and championing of a local indie place in the face of the onslaught of chains York has seen over the years is truly humbling.”
Happily, the venue is ready for a new chapter. Florencia Clifford and Hugo Hildyard at Micklegate café Partisan are buying the freehold.
They “have plans to open up their own more casual offering over the next few months. I’m really excited for them as they know and love this amazing building as much as I do,” Clarrie wrote.
She added: “York’s rich history means buildings evolve, grow and change ownership. Ten years later I’m so grateful that the custodianship of this ancient (in homage to the Roman basement) building is in good hands.”
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