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Adelaide Weeps At Closure Of Innovative Restaurant Henry Austin

This afternoon we received the devastating news that the brilliant Henry Austin restaurant, located on Chesser Street in the city, will be closing its doors.

This afternoon we received the devastating news that the brilliant Henry Austin restaurant, located on Chesser Street in the city, will be closing its doors on August 1st.

Born from the creative genius of the equally brilliant Max Mason, the venue received more media coverage in its 12 month life, than anything we’ve ever seen before. Despite receiving raving reviews both locally and interstate, Adelaide patrons didn’t embrace the menu-free, cutting edge concept of the Modern Australian restaurant. The dining was based on the yum cha ideal, where dishes are brought around and diners could pick and choose depending on their appetites and moods. The fantastic food kept those in the know coming back, but it seems it wasn’t enough to generate the crowds needed to keep it going.

The Henry Austin was established as part of Renew Adelaide, and now that the rent-free grace period for the premises is over, the lack of local support has forced the closure of one of Adelaide’s best venues.

Max posted a heart-felt, emotional post on Facebook detailing the closure.

In closing his announcement, Max has asks that anyone with opportunities for his amazing staff (or for himself for that matter) please get in touch – so spread the word.

Renew Adelaide CEO, Tim Boundy, today said this on the on Henry Austin closure:
“Max Mason, through The Henry Austin, was a able to bring a brave new hospitality concept to an iconic heritage building, through the Renew Adelaide model. We love the enthusiasm and attitude to trying new things that this venture represented.
The Henry Austin has spent a year bringing life to Adelaide and to Max’s credit, has made excellent use of the property through a wide-range of activities and hospitality offers.
Together with the funding of the Government of South Australia and Adelaide City Council and the partnership of Knight Frank and the property owner, this iconic heritage property is now in working condition and we hope that someone else sees the potential in this grand abode.
The Renew Adelaide program focusses on activating vacant property and helping establish new businesses through a rent-free model, with lower risk and barriers to entry.”

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