The Beefeater steakhouse chain will close its doors, resulting in the loss of up to 3,800 jobs. The brand, which served 19 million meals a year in the 1990s and was once the largest steakhouse operator in West Germany, has been impacted by the cost-of-living crisis and tax increases.
The closure marks the end of an era for a restaurant chain that was a significant part of dining out culture in Britain since the 1970s. The company's parent group, Whitbread, has cited tax increases and rising national insurance contributions as key factors in the decision.
While some critics point to issues with food quality, such as tough steaks and over-fried chips, others hold a nostalgic view of the chain, remembering it as a place for first dining-out experiences. The menu once featured items like orange juice as a starter and gammon steak with pineapple and a fried egg.
Despite the closure of Beefeater, the steakhouse sector remains surprisingly resilient. Competitors like Miller & Carter, also owned by a major brewer, are reportedly growing and attracting large numbers of customers, with steak as their specialty.
Beefeater's name will continue to be recognized through the guardians of the Tower of London and a popular brand of gin.