News / Restaurants

Restaurant to close blaming increased rent increases

By Martin Booth  Tuesday Apr 15, 2025

One of Bristol’s most experienced hospitality teams have blamed rent increases in the Old City for the closure of one of their restaurants.

Tuesday evening will be the last service at Four Wise Monkeys on Clare Street.

The Tokyo-inspired diner was opened in 2020 by the Hyde & Co Group – also behind The Ox, Seven Lucky Gods, Bambalan and more.

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It replaced Spanish restaurant Pata Negra, also owned by the Hyde & Co Group, which had opened in 2014.

Another of their venues, The Raven, will remain open on the upper floors of 30 Clare Street, with Four Wise Monkeys remaining on Deliveroo and possibly reopening in a new location at a later date.

Four Wise Monkeys was inspired by the izakayas of Tokyo – photo: Four Wise Monkeys

On Instagram, the Four Wise Monkeys team wrote on Tuesday: “Tonight marks the final night of service at our Clare Street home – after over a decade in this incredible building, we’ll be closing our doors.

“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.”

Main photo: Four Wise Monkeys

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