A highly-rated restaurant in a popular Somerset coastal town has announced it's closing its door indefinitely after over 20 years serving the local community.
La Vela in Burnham-on-Sea is a sought-after dining spot serving top-rated Italian cuisine, but have announced they're taking an "extended break" from next month.
The family run business has garnered an exemplary 4.6 star Google review rating and plenty of loyal customers, but staff have said decades running the business has "taken its toll".
The restaurant will be closed from November 2, with the final meals served on the team's last open day for the foreseeable future on Sunday November 1.
Beloved restaurant "is our home", owner says
Business owner Hazel Acay explained: "After 21 years in Burnham-on-Sea, La Vela is more than a business to us—it is our home and part of the community.
"I truly don't want to close its doors, which makes taking this extended break an incredibly emotional decision."
"After running the restaurant for a long time, the constant responsibility has taken its toll on me physically and mentally.
"Behind every service are staff and suppliers to organise, rising bills, equipment repairs, insurance, taxes and licences."
Hazel said the impact of high workloads are having an impact, adding: "The work continues long after the doors close, and even time off rarely means switching off.
"It leaves little room for rest or family life."
La Vela has been serving the local community in Burnham, and those travelling from further afield, for 21 years as the owners make the difficult decision to step back.
Hazel added: "I still love what I do. Looking after people, making them feel special and welcoming them like family has always been the heart of La Vela.
"We have watched families grow, shared special occasions and grown older alongside so many of you."
"Friendship and loyalty" thanked as restaurant's options "remain open"
While La Vela will close for its foreseeable future, the team say the break should be temporary before they decide on the restaurant's next steps.
Hazel said: "La Vela is a great business with so much potential, and I still believe in its future. But I need to give myself a chance to rest and recover before deciding what comes next.
"Something this important deserves time and careful thought. Our options remain open, with no reopening date confirmed.
"To every single customer who has visited, enjoyed our food and supported us over the years: thank you. Your friendship and loyalty have meant so much.
"We would love to welcome you over the coming weeks before our break begins."
La Vela, located on Abingdon Street in Burnham-on-Sea, will be closed from November 2.
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