'Time to say goodbye': Carter and Co thanks customers years of 'loyalty' and 'laughter' as it announces closure
Almost five years after opening, a restaurant and cocktail bar has thanked its customers for “incredible” memories as it announces its closure.
Carter and Co, in Great Southsea Street, opened in May 2021 after Steve Kingsley, his son Tom, and their business partner Mick Forfar spent months undertaking a thorough renovation.
The restaurant and bar, which was previously the Italian Bar and Grill, has been a popular fixture in the city since launching, with its elevated casual dining and boutique guest rooms on offer.
But the team have now announced the restaurant will be closing.
“We’d like to take a moment to say a sincere and heartfelt thank you to every customer who has walked through our doors at Carter & Co Southsea. Your loyalty, laughter, conversations, and support over the years have meant more to us than words can truly express.
“What made Carter & Co Southsea special was never just the building, the bar, or the pints poured — it was the people who brought it to life. We are deeply grateful for the friendships formed, the memories shared, and the incredible community that grew here. It has truly been an honor to serve you all.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being part of our story.”
The announcement comes after a planning application was submitted to Portsmouth City Council last year seeking permission to convert the building that Carter and Co operates from into four homes.
The application, which is awaiting a decision, outlines plans to create two homes - one a five-bed home and the other a four-bed home - with two other four-bed homes built in the pub garden.
More updates to follow.
To view or comment on the plans visit the Portsmouth City Council planning portal and search applications 25/00963/FUL and 25/00964/LBC.
Carter and Co Southsea has been contacted for more information.