HanaMatsuri, Leeds: Beloved Japanese restaurant in Meanwood announces shock closure after 'challenging' years
A much loved Japanese restaurant in Leeds has made the “difficult decision” to close after 12 years in the city.
HanaMatsuri, on Meanwood Road, became one of the most sought-after destinations in the city after opening in 2013, with diners eating delicately prepared, authentic multi-course Japanese meals behind blinds.
The restaurant’s owner and chef Kaoru Nakamura opened Sushi Nakamura on Eastgate in 2023, which became the focus for the fine-dining experience perfected at HanaMatsuri; which in turn took a more casual, open door approach.
In a post on Instagram yesterday (Wednesday), HanaMatsuri announced that it has “permanently closed”.
The statement reads: “Thank you to everyone who has visited and supported HanaMatsuri over the years.
“Meanwood has been a great location for us and we have had great local businesses as neighbours.
“We continue with Sushi Nakamura in the city centre and hope to welcome you there.”
They continued: “Striking a balance between working across two sites without losing any of the quality in what we offer has been challenging.
“It has been a difficult decision to close Hana Matsuri at Meanwood but it feels right for our small family-owned business.
“Thank you again for your support, it has meant a lot to us and continues to motivate us.”