A Peculiar Tea shuts shop amid ‘unfeasible’ costs

She now plans to open a new restaurant on July 17, outside Belfast and which will not operate under a theme like A Peculiar Tea.

The team will leave their home on Belfast’s University Road to return to pop ups and said a “return to their roots” will allow A Peculiar Tea to “remain the quirky, unique and loved experience that it is”.

But Ms Austin hit out at those who’ve sent abuse since the closure announcement was made. “Please be kind. We know people will be disappointed and possibly angry but I promise you, for every feeling you have, I’ve 100 more,” she said.

“Some people have sent quite nasty emails already like this is something we are happy about doing. Our hearts are broke, as are those of our staff, so please keep that in mind.”

She added: “We looked for/viewed new premises as our lease comes to an end, but the reality is that the rent being charged by landlords (along with the staggering rates bill) and a mountain of other extortionate costs, means that our style of dining is unfeasible. I will never, ever, change what A Peculiar Tea is to fit the narrative. I will never stop the themes or compromise on quality, because that’s not who we are.”

There have been “tears, sleepless nights and doubt about whether this is the right decision,” she said.

“We have one of the best restaurants in the City and are fully booked months in advance but it means nothing in this current climate. We calculated that we would need to serve a Tasting Menu at £170 per person to make a profit… we would never do this.

“I believe A Peculiar Tea will return to where it belongs when the time is right. Not rushed by leases or under pressure. Patience is a virtue.”