A popular restaurant and bar is closing down after 10 years in business.

Victoria Grill Restaurant and Rumbar Lounge, located on Victoria Street, will be closed for business effective this Saturday.

The restaurant and bar are part of the Island Restaurant Group, one of Bermuda’s largest chains of restaurants. Philip Barnett, president of group, said the business had completed its 10-year lease at the location.

“Having been open since 2008, we are at the end of our lease and have decided not to renew. The directors have made the strategic decision to discontinue full service restaurant and bar service,” he said.

Other restaurants in the group are Frog & Onion pub and Dockyard Brewery, Hog Penny Pub, Barracuda Grill, and The Pickled Onion. The group also provides full off-site catering services.

“These operations will be getting our complete attention and focus as we continue to build on our Bermuda and global reputation of excellence in casual through fine dining restaurants outlets, and which will ultimately allow us to deliver improved shareholder value and return on investment,” said Mr Barnett.

He also mentioned that the group is currently in negotiations with the landlords of the Victoria Place building to re-lease the space currently occupied by the Java Jive café.

Mr Barnett added: “Java Jive is very popular and well utilised by both tenants and visitors to the Victoria Place complex, as well as the whole business and residential neighbourhood. We are looking forward to servicing all our valued regulars and clients, and will continue to operate under normal hours.”

Mr Barnett said no jobs will be lost, adding: “Our people are our number one asset.”

All staff who are currently at Victoria Grill and Rumbar will be transferred throughout the group’s associated outlets.

“Whilst no one ever opens a restaurant with a plan to close it, we are saddened that we have to do just that even if after ten long years of continuous operation.

“Our sincere thanks and appreciation goes out to all our past and present patrons, for whom it was our pleasure to come to work every day to welcome and serve. The team can’t wait to welcome and serve you in their new outlets.” said Mr Barnett.

This restaurant and bar may be closing but The Pickled Onion, located on Front Street, has completed a front of house renovations.

“Subcontractors, all Bermudian, did a brilliant job. Pickled Onion has been there for 20 years and people expect a lot from us. We want to make sure we are raising our bar to deliver value,” said Mr Barnett.

The renovations have cost $500,000. The menu will be the same, but with a few additions such as introducing more vegetarian and vegan options.

There will be a soft opening although no date has been set.