The restaurant is currently not taking bookings beyond the end of October, with Restaurant being told that the closure is only expected to be temporary.
However, Restaurant also understands that another option being considered by D&D London is to sell the site.
In a statement, the company says: “After thorough deliberation, and following the departure of chef patron Ben Murphy, D&D London has made the decision to close Launceston Place in Kensington at the end of this month. We will be reviewing our options for the business moving forwards.
“The well-being of the greatly valued team at Launceston Place remains a priority and D&D London is committed to supporting those affected.
“Despite this change, the group’s outlook remains robust as it concludes a successful period and anticipates exciting opportunities in the coming year, both in the UK and internationally.”
Murphy announced back in August that he would be leaving Launceston Place at the end of October, saying it was ‘time for a new chapter’.
At the time it was reported that he had no definite plans for his next role and was looking at a number of options.
Murphy, who begun his career at Koffmann’s at The Berkeley with Pierre Koffmann back in 2010, joined Launceston Place as head chef in 2017 after D&D took ownership of the restaurant following its acquisition of Image Restaurants.
He was promoted to chef patron in 2021.
Speaking about his departure back in the summer, Murphy said: “[Launceston Place] has been a remarkable stage in my working life, and I have grown both personally and professionally.”
His final service will be on 31 October.
