From long-standing independent businesses that had served their communities for decades to well-known national chains closing due to redevelopment and administration, 2025 brought significant change to the local food scene.
Here’s a look at the restaurants we said goodbye to this year:
Cool Breeze, Hither Green
Cool Breeze West Indian Takeaway in Hither Green closed its doors in November after almost 30 years in business.
Cool Breeze West Indian Takeaway in Hither Green closed its doors in November. (Image: Danielle Scott-Haughton)
The much-loved Caribbean takeaway first opened in March 1997 and was run by owner Alice Muchanyuka, who became a familiar face to generations of customers.
Alice confirmed the closure was due to the lease on the property coming to an end, with the landlord planning a new development.
Following the announcement, customers took to social media to share their sadness, describing Cool Breeze as more than just a takeaway, but a vital part of the local community.
Pizza Hut, Greenwich
Pizza Hut’s Bugsby’s Way, Greenwich restaurant closed in October as part of a nationwide shake-up of the brand’s UK dine-in sites.
Pizza Hut’s Bugsby’s Way, Greenwich restaurant closed in October. (Image: Google)
The Bugsby’s Way branch was among 68 restaurants across the country set to close after Pizza Hut’s UK franchise operator entered administration.
Located in the Millennium Leisure Park, the restaurant had long been popular with families and cinema-goers.
McDonald’s, Walworth Road
McDonald’s on Walworth Road closed permanently at the end of November after more than 40 years of trading.
McDonald’s on Walworth Road closed permanently at the end of November. (Image: Google)
The branch, which first opened in 1982, shut due to redevelopment plans in the Southwark area.
McDonald’s confirmed all staff were relocated to other nearby restaurants.
Ocean Basket, Bromley
Ocean Basket’s Bromley restaurant closed for good in August after being in business for three years.
Ocean Basket’s Bromley restaurant closed for good in August. (Image: Transform Marketing)
The seafood chain opened its Bromley branch in February 2022, marking its first UK location.
In a farewell message shared online, the team thanked customers for their support and described Bromley as where their UK journey began.
The unit has since reopened as Popeyes, the American fried chicken chain, which launched on the high street in October.
Assos Restaurant, Crayford
Assos Restaurant in Crayford closed earlier this year after nearly two decades in business.
Assos Restaurant in Crayford closed earlier this year after nearly two decades in business. (Image: Google)
The Turkish restaurant first opened in 2007 and was run by owners Rose and Mark, who decided to retire.
In a statement to customers, the pair thanked the community for years of support, saying they had built lasting friendships during their time in Crayford.
The site has since reopened as Madras Flavours, a South Indian vegetarian restaurant.
