The pair – who are among the seaside city’s most prominent and successful restaurateurs – are directly attributing the closure to the rising cost of doing business and the ongoing cost of living crisis.
The McKellars say they have reached a tipping point, with rising business rates, continued increases in food and energy costs, and higher taxation combining to create an increasingly difficult environment for independent operators.
“For small, owner-run restaurants like ours, these challenges are not just difficult, they are unsustainable,” they say. “Margins have been squeezed to a point where maintaining the standards, team and experience we have built our reputation on is no longer financially viable.”
They add that the pressures facing their business are being felt across the industry, with many independent restaurants already forced to close.
Without meaningful change, they warn, the sector risks losing much of its character as long-standing neighbourhood venues disappear from high streets.
Despite having weathered numerous challenges over the years, they say the current cost environment has made it impossible for the 30-cover restaurant to continue operating.
The McKellars’ other ventures in and around the city - The Ginger Pig in Hove, The Ginger Fox in Albourne and the more recently launched The Flint House in Brighton’s The Lanes - will continue to trade as normal.
Launched in Norfolk Square in 1998 close to the Brighton-Hove border, the 30-cover venue is the city’s longest-running fine dining restaurant and has been instrumental in helping shape the city’s food scene, with a number of key operators having passed through its kitchen and dining room.
The restaurant offers an intimate, modern European dining experience built around seasonal, ingredient-led cooking serving “uncomplicated, full-flavoured” dishes using high-quality produce.
Guests can choose between an à la carte and a multi-course tasting menu, alongside a considered wine list, with the offer spanning lunch, dinner and a well-regarded Sunday roast.
The style is refined but understated, combining modern British and European influences in a relaxed, neighbourhood setting.
Gingerman will remain open for the next few months to allow “the team and their guests to share a final chapter together”.
“The Gingerman has grown into something so meaningful because of our loyal guests, supporters and friends. You filled our tables with laughter, celebrated life’s milestones with us and made our restaurant feel like home,” the pair add.
“We also want to recognise the incredible team members we have had the privilege of working alongside over the years. Their passion, dedication and talent helped shape our restaurant into one of the go-to dining destinations in Brighton. From the kitchen to the front of house, it was their care and craft that brought everything to life, and for nearly three decades Gingerman has been proud to play a part in shaping Brighton’s vibrant food scene.”