Popular Bristol Asian restaurant closes down amidst financial difficulties

Four Wise Monkeys is an Asian super diner on Clare Street bringing retro Asian vibes and all-day Pan-Asian drinking and dining, and is the sister restaurant to Seven Lucky Gods, a famous Bristol Japanese fusion restaurant at Wapping Wharf.

The venue was opened in 2020 by Hyde & Co Group, who are behind some Bristol’s famous eateries like The Ox, Seven Lucky Gods and Bambalan, and replaced Spanish restaurant Pata Negra (also owned by Hyde & Co Group), which had opened in 2014.

After calling Clare Street their home for over a decade, the company has announced it will be closing down Four Wise Monkeys after being unable to meet rent increases.

The Raven, one of the other venues owned by Hyde & Co Group, will continue to be open on the upper floors of 30 Clare Street, and Four Wise Monkeys will continue to be available on Deliveroo as it looks for a new physical location.

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Four Wise Monkeys commented: “It’s been a long journey to this point, but ultimately, we weren’t able to meet rent increase.

“After a year of negotiations, we’ve secured a buyer for the building and worked out a deal that allows The Raven to stay on the upper floors a silver lining we’re really proud of.

“This building has been our base for over 10 years. We’ve weathered highs and lows, watched the area evolve, and stood strong as one of the last independents on the street.

“But with rising costs and shrinking margins, it was time to make a tough but smart business decision: to move on.

“We’re grateful to have been able to offer most of our amazing team roles within our other venues, and Four Wise Monkeys isn’t disappearing completely we’re still available on Deliveroo and we’ll be working on finding a new physical home soon.

“There’s exciting change ahead for this space, with major investment incoming something we just couldn’t stretch to ourselves. But we’re optimistic. Summer’s around the corner, the city feels alive again, and the future looks bright.

“Thanks to everyone who’s ever stepped through our doors, ordered a bao bun, shared a laugh, or raised a glass with us. We’ve loved every moment.

“Here’s to new beginnings.”

Four Wise Monkeys, 30 Clare St, Bristol BS1 1YH