Leeds’ Hedonist Bar has closed its doors, the venue’s social media announced on Saturday.
The bar was at the vanguard of the Leeds cocktail scene for the best part of a decade and recently underwent a refurbishment for its seventh birthday.
Its co-owner Daniel Crowther was nominated for Bar Manager of the Year at the Class Bar Awards 2020.
The bar's Instagram post read: “Our doors are closed and we have ceased trading (in this venue at least) forever! We would like to thank all of those who have graced our venue and shared a drink and laugh with us over the years. Friendships and relationships have been forged across the bar that will last forever. You know who you are.
“So don't cry because it's over, smile because it happened. Keep your eyes peeled for when we return.”
The bar was part of a wider portfolio of businesses, comprising a gin and rum school - Liquor Studio Leeds – a consultancy firm, called Hedonist Drinks, and festival arm which includes Leeds Rum and Whisky Fest.
The door has been left open for a possible relocation of Hedonist Bar. “This isn't goodbye, merely see you later," the venue's Instagram post read.
Contacted by Class to find out more, co-owner Crowther said: "We couldn't dedicate the time that the venue deserves. That's due to our other business commitments - mainly our brand agency Hedonist Drinks and The Liquor Studio. But the current issue of rising core costs and changing consumer habits also contributed to this decision."