'I'm absolutely gutted': Back to the Belgrave announces closure after to changing landscape
A popular bar has announced its closure
Despite overcoming a recession and a pandemic, the owners of a Southsea bar have announced it is closing down due to major landscape changes in the hospitality industry.
Back to the Belgrave has been a key part of Southsea’s food and drink scene with Stephanie Hunter and her partner at its helm, also running its predecessors Acapulco, Al’burrito and Bar 50 Six at the same site for a total of 18 years.
Stephanie said: “We have been there for 18 years and we had a really thriving business for years. We got it through the 2010 recession and got it through Covid but we just can’t get it through this. The footfall in Albert Road has completely changed. The next generation coming through don’t go out like we did, they’ve got a different lifestyle and it’s not keeping the pub industry alive.
“It was a really hard decision to close. I thought I would go on for another few years - I’m not getting any younger - but we decided on Friday to close. I don’t want to get to the stage where we start owing money.
“I’m absolutely gutted, I’m really sad. It was my baby and I threw everything I had at it. We’ve built a really nice business and I’ve met some amazing people and have made lifelong friends. I’ve loved every minute.”
She added: “I really implore people to use the businesses in Albert Road. I really think it is so important because one drink could make a difference for everyone.
“Everyone down Albert Road has been so nice. I’ve had a lot of lovely messages and people have been really kind about it but they have all said it’s really tough out there at the moment.”
The bar previously worked alongside multiple independent businesses to host pop-up events, with its most recent collaboration with Shroom and Stones Throw Pizza going down a treat with customers.
Lucy Bridgewater, owner of Shroom, said: “We did a pop up there last weekend and that was the second one we’ve done at Back to the Belgrave. It’s sad because there are so many new bars that open up and some of them are just so sterile. It’s so sad when independent businesses have to close and we are left with chains. I love that venue so much - my dad was a publican so I really appreciate the trade. The old ones are always the best.”
The Cut Above the Belgrave, an independent hair salon owned by Ethan Owen, has confirmed it will continue operating despite the bar’s closure.