The Crafty Egg, a cherished Bristol food venue with locations in Stokes Croft and Fishponds, has announced the impending closure of its Redfield restaurant and bar on Church Road. The site, which opened its doors in October 2024 in a building formerly housing a Wetherspoons pub, will serve its final customers on Sunday, February 9th.
Sharing the news on Instagram, the Crafty Egg team expressed deep regret while highlighting the financial difficulties that led to this decision. They emphasized how efforts to revamp the menu, redesign the layout, and invest in the venue were ultimately not enough to counteract the relentless rise in operating costs. The team pointed to nationwide challenges facing independent hospitality businesses, including inflationary pressures, high VAT, and limited government support, leading to thousands of closures and job losses across the country.
The Crafty Egg took pride in revitalizing the Church Road property, which had been boarded up for years, and expressed hope that another independent operator would soon bring fresh life to the space. The venue remains fully equipped to a high standard, which may facilitate a smooth transition to new operators without the return of unsightly hoardings.
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This closure follows a difficult trading period exacerbated by sunny weather diverting foot traffic and competition from a nearby Rubino Lounge. The Redfield venue’s challenges started immediately; shortly after opening, thieves targeted it, stealing the main door handles in a brazen act caught on CCTV.
Operating since 2021 in part of the former St George’s Hall pub, The Crafty Egg occupied most of the building, excluding areas like the old cinema section and beer cellars. The team had previously expressed enthusiasm for restoring the venue’s character and supporting any future development plans, including potential cinema renovations.
In closing remarks, the Crafty Egg thanked their dedicated staff and loyal customers for their support through arduous times. They reassured patrons that their other Bristol locations remain open and thriving. The team urged the community to visit independent businesses, highlighting the integral role these venues play in maintaining vibrant local neighborhoods.
Fans and locals took to social media to voice their disappointment, lamenting the loss of a beloved brunch spot and the growing dominance of chain lounges in the area. The closure marks a difficult moment for independent hospitality in Bristol but underscores the ongoing challenges faced by small venues striving to survive in today’s economic climate.