New Zealand-based fine-dining restaurant Sidart has shut down, ending a 15-year presence in Ponsonby, Auckland.

The business has entered liquidation.

Owner and head chef Lesley Chandra announced the decision on social media: “After careful consideration, we have made the difficult decision to close Sidart effective immediately. This decision was not made lightly, and we are deeply grateful for the support, memories and experiences we’ve shared with each of you over the years.”

Chandra attributed the business’s collapse to increasing operating costs, and a sharp fall in customer numbers.

He highlighted that customer traffic had declined by between 50% and 60% compared with 2023 and the price of ingredients, including staples such as flour and sugar, had risen significantly.

Staff shortages have also played a role in the decision.

As reported by Stuff NZ, Chandra stated: “Times are tough, the economy is not so great. We couldn’t raise prices too much - otherwise, we’d have zero customers.”

He went on to say that most staff had already found roles elsewhere, and “... to our dedicated team past and present: your hard work and dedication has been essential to our previous success and we thank you.

“To our suppliers and partners, your collaboration and reliability have helped us deliver the best possible experiences to our guests. We appreciate your professionalism and understanding.”

Sidart was established in 2009 by restaurateurs Sid and Chand Sahrawat.

The Sahrawats sold the business in 2021 to Chandra, a former employee and friend.