The Theatre Cafe closed over rent arrears

Famed West End institution, the Theatre Cafe, has been closed following issues over rent arrears.

In a series of notices placed on the door of the venue (located on St Martin’s Lane in London) earlier today, landlords the Marquess of Salisbury and his son the Viscount Cranborne explained their entry onto the property and a forfeiture of the lease. A second printed sign on the venue, distributed later on the same day, served notice. Photos of both signs were distributed across social media.

An initial message from the Cafe read: “Due to unforeseen circumstances, the Theatre Cafe is closed. But our other incredible venue, the Theatre Cafe Diner, is still open and our talented staft are ready to entertain you!”

A long-standing fan favourite location, the Theatre Cafe is dedicated to providing beverages and food for those in the area, while also hosting special show-specific events and launches. A sister location, the Theatre Cafe Diner, was opened on Shaftesbury Avenue last year to great punter acclaim. The diner remains operational and open.

In an expanded statement to WhatsOnStage, the owners explained: “We were made aware when attempting to enter the property on Monday 23 October that the premises had been secured by the landlord for the Theatre Cafe. This is due to rent arrears relating to COVID. We are an independent, family-run business and we have tried to survive since the pandemic, though we are still feeling the unwavering effects of COVID.

“At present we are trying to reschedule any events coming up at the Theatre Cafe, or move them to our fabulous sister venue the Theatre Cafe Diner. All ticket holders will be contacted in due course. We aim to come back bigger and better at a new venue, though in the meantime we are still fully operational at the Theatre Cafe Diner.” 

WhatsOnStage has contacted representatives for the landlord.