In a statement released to media on the afternoon of Thursday March 19, representatives from Howard Smith Wharves announced the immediate and permanent closure of ARC Dining. Citing the effects of COVID-19 on many businesses in Australia’s hospitality industry, the organisation revealed that ARC Dining had become a high-profile example of the reality facing local restaurants. Acclaimed chef and ARC’s guiding force Alanna Sapwell said in the statement, “I’m devastated by the closure of ARC Dining. It’s been incredible to see the team grow and develop over the last year. I’m proud of them and hope we can work together again in the future. To meet and feed so many customers and to share this food with my home town has been a special experience I’ll always be grateful for. In this challenging time for the industry, if you can, please support in any way possible – order take away, buy a gift card or make a reservation for the future to prevent other restaurants forced to face the same choice”.
The statement also revealed that Alanna would be staying on within the HSW precinct to cook take-home meals for local diners, a movement that many restaurants have joined since the coronavirus outbreak. ARC Dining was recently awarded one hat in the Good Food Awards and was co-runner-up for Brisbane’s Best New Restaurant in 2019’s EAT/drink Awards.
