Alba Bar & Deli in Burnett Lane Has Poured Its Last Drinks and Permanently Closed Its Doors
The San Sebastian-inspired haunt from former 'MasterChef' contestant Jamie Fleming has shut due to "economic pressures".
When Alba Bar & Deli opened in Brisbane's CBD in 2019, it launched at a time before a global pandemic temporarily shut down the world, including the hospitality industry, and then cost-of-living pressures changed the way that people spend their dollars on going out. The Burnett Lane spot weathered those unexpected ups and downs for five years, but has now sadly called it quits. If you went by on Saturday, June 22, 2024, then you hit up the watering hole on its last day of trade.
Led by former MasterChef contestant Jamie Fleming, the Alba team announced the news just the day before the San Sebastian-inspired haunt shut up shop, citing the current economic climate for the decision.
"It is with great sadness that we the Alba team have to announce that we will be closing as of tomorrow, Saturday 22nd of June. Unfortunately economic pressures as well as having terrible timing with opening (you know what we mean) means we have had to make this heartwrenching decision," said the Alba gang in a statement on Instagram.
"We are a small team and always tried to offer the best-quality service and produce. Unfortunately with prices of everything going up and little support, there is unfortunately only one clear end."
"We would like to say thank you to everyone that has helped bring Alba to life. From the team members, suppliers, friends and anyone who came through the door, you have helped bring something amazing to life," the statement continues.
"A special thank you goes out to the hospitality industry at large. We have always had huge support from those we respect and love the most, our peers. Without your support, Alba would have been another statistic and instead, we have been given the opportunity to swing for the fences and continue to hit the mark. To have so many people come through our doors and buy into our concept has been overwhelming."
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The brick-fronted laneway spot paired its Spanish influences with nods to 90s-era New York, serving up amaro and vermouth spritzes, scallop ceviche, sardines, jamon serrano, steak tartare, patatas bravas and bistec to a hip hop soundtrack within cosy surroundings. Also a highlight: the daily aperitivo block from 3–5pm from Tuesday–Friday.
As part of its farewell statement, the Alba team promises that this won't be the last that anyone sees of them, although there's no word yet on Fleming and company's next moves.
Alba Bar & Deli closed at 34 Burnett Lane, Brisbane, on Saturday, June 22, 2024.
