The Fork in Sussex announces closure

The Fork restaurant in Lewes, Sussex, has confirmed it will be closing at the end of the month after four years of trading.

The team revealed the news “with great sadness” on Instagram, adding: “To all our guests – your support, kindness, and shared moments have meant the world to us. Thank you for being part of our journey. We will miss you!”

The Fork was launched by Richard Falk, the former head chef at the Dairy in London’s Clapham, in June 2021, specialising in modern dishes showcasing Sussex produce.

When The Caterer paid a visit to the 26-cover restaurant soon after its launch, Fork was serving the likes of Trenchmore flank, salsa verde, smoked bone marrow and toasted milk bread, as well as brill roasted over coal, session IPA, sorrel and cabbage.

In 2022, Grace Dent pre-emptively wrote in The Guardian that the Fork is “the sort of place I dearly want to succeed, and times are perilous right now for restaurants, so if you can support places such as Fork, please show willing”.

Jack Standen took over as head chef of the Fork in August 2023, having joined the restaurant as sous chef in July 2022. He has worked with front of house manager Philippe Alvarez since then.

The pair will lead the restaurant until its final day of service on 30 March.

Image: Hikaru Funnell Photography