Psycho Sandbar Leeds: Readers react as Michelin Star chef announces sudden closure of city centre restaurant
Readers have reacted to the news that another Leeds restaurant has closed its doors suddenly.
Psycho Sandbar on Vicar Lane was opened by Michael O'Hare in March this year after the Michelin-starred chef rebranded his restaurant The Man Behind the Curtain.
Announcing the sudden closure on social media today (October 3), O'Hare said the move was “reflective of the changing experience market we all live in”.
In a statement, the chef said: “I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved over the last decade. We've had some amazing moments and I'm so thankful for everyone that has played their part, either as guests or as part of the team.
“The decision is very much based upon my exciting plans for the future, but is reflective of the changing experience market we all live in."
O’Hare added: “We've achieved so much and Leeds will always be so special to me, I'm honoured to have played my part in the culinary history of this great city."
Reactions to the sudden closure were immediate, with readers expressing sadness as well as pointing out the high prices.
Barbara Kayll said on Facebook: "All these celebrity chefs closing their restaurants, unfortunately not a lot of people can afford to go to them. Shame as I am sure food is lovely but have to put other things first."
Nicky Crum, a fan of O'Hare's previous ventures, said: "I’m so sad! I loved [The] Man Behind the Curtain and so wanted to try this one!"
Some readers mentioned the fact that the restaurant only opened seven months ago. Heather Hayes wrote: "That didn’t last long. Probably too ‘out there’ and pricey for people…"
Helen F Reasbeck added: "Maybe because it was very very expensive - only dined there once when it was The Man Behind the Curtain, food was excellent but the drinks were way overpriced."
Psycho Sandbar was opened in March 2024 after O’Hare rebranded The Man Behind the Curtain, Leeds only Michelin-starred restaurant.
At the time, the Great British Menu judge said the rebrand was a result of Brexit, the pandemic and the cost of living crisis, which he said had “transformed” the food and drink industry.