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Sidart Closes Suddenly After 13 Years, Leaving Void on Ponsonby Rd

After 13 years, Sidart is closing its doors. The sudden closure of this iconic Auckland restaurant leaves food enthusiasts wondering what's next for Ponsonby Rd.

A restaurant by the side of road with some tree in the background.
A restaurant by the side of road with some tree in the background.

Sidart Closes Suddenly After 13 Years, Leaving Void on Ponsonby Rd

Sidart, a renowned restaurant near me on Auckland's Ponsonby Rd, is set to close immediately. The decision was announced by Lesley Chandra, the restaurant's owner and chef, who bought the establishment from the Sahrawats in 2021. The closure follows Sidart's recognition as the Cuisine Good Food Awards' Restaurant of the Year in 2019.

Sidart's closure comes as a surprise to many, given its long-standing presence and success in Auckland's dining scene. The restaurant opened in 2009 and has since been a popular destination for food enthusiasts. Its closure joins a list of other nearby restaurants that have shut down in recent years, including SPQR and Ponsonby Road Bistro.

Lesley Chandra and Chand Sahrawat, the previous owners, cited the desire to pursue new personal and professional opportunities as the reason behind the closure of both Sidart and KOL, another restaurant they owned.

Sidart's closure marks the end of an era for Auckland's dining scene. Despite its success and recognition, the restaurant will no longer operate, leaving a void on Ponsonby Rd. Lesley Chandra, the current owner and chef, has made the decision to move on, paving the way for new dining experiences in the area.

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