Belfast Michelin chef Dylan McGrath shutters two Dublin restaurants

Chef Dylan McGrath has announced the immediate closure of two of his well-known Dublin restaurants.

The renowned chef, who gained widespread recognition as a judge on the Irish version of Masterchef, has decided to shut down Brasserie Sixty6 and Rustic Stone, both of which are located in the heart of the city centre. Despite these closures, McGrath’s third establishment, Fade Street Social, will continue to operate, providing a continued culinary presence in Dublin.

McGrath, who was born in Dublin and raised in Belfast, first made waves in the culinary world when, at the age of 30, he became the youngest Irish chef ever to be awarded a Michelin star. This achievement in 2008 solidified his reputation as a trailblazer in the Irish food scene, earning him significant acclaim both locally and internationally.

The decision to close Brasserie Sixty6 and Rustic Stone marks a significant shift in McGrath’s culinary journey, but his commitment to innovation and quality remains evident with Fade Street Social still open for business. Patrons who have already made reservations at the two now-closed restaurants will be contacted in the coming days to address their bookings and offer alternative arrangements.

While the closures may come as a surprise to many, McGrath’s remaining ventures are expected to continue reflecting his passion for pushing the boundaries of culinary excellence.

McGrath took to Instagram to update the following on the decision:

“Looking at hospitality in the city, the time has come where we have decided it’s simply not sustainable. It’s hard to put into words what has happened to restaurants and the city centre in the last four years.

“Brasserie Sixty6 has had 25 years in business and Rustic Stone has had 15. We would like to thank all of our customers over the years, our suppliers and all those who spent their happy times dining with us. No doubt we will miss the restaurants, but selling on the leases and concentrating on Fade Street Social currently is what’s needed. We wish the new occupiers all the success for the future.

“For all the great people who have worked with us over the years, that came and trained with us, that became better, and made us better, we want to say thank you.

“This is a very challenging time for stand-alone restaurant models. Rustic Stone and Brasserie Sixty6 have been very successful restaurants in Dublin City for a long time, but hospitality is changing and we believe our strong work ethic is better applied to new and different opportunities. We will be focused on Fade Street Social and making it the best it can be. 

We look forward to welcoming you in Fade Street as always.”