In a statement, Purnell expressed deep sadness over the closure, citing a combination of economic pressures and the ongoing challenges faced by the hospitality industry.
The restaurant’s final service was held on Saturday (12 October).
“Purnell’s has been my proudest moment, and I am heartbroken to say that after 17 years we have served our final guest,” the chef said.
“It fills my heart with pride to say that Purnell’s was a roaring success from day one.”
Purnell, who trained with top chefs including Gordon Ramsay, Gary Rhodes and Claude Bosi, opened his eponymous restaurant on Cornwall Street in 2007.
It earned a Michelin star just a year after opening and was also awarded the Craft Guild of Chefs New Restaurant of the Year Award, and the AA Restaurant of the Year Award.
“Purnell’s has been a place where I have had the privilege of working with some of the greatest talent I’ve ever known, and where I have trained people who are now working in some of the best restaurants in the world,” Purnell continued.
“However, the world doesn’t stand still. Things have moved on, and times have changed. In this current climate, no-one is bulletproof.
“I would like to thank everybody who has worked for me over the years. I have always had a team who are like family to me, who have worked with creativity, passion and enthusiasm to make Purnell’s the success it has been for 17 years.
“I’d also like to thank everybody who has ever eaten here and celebrated life here.
“I’ve raised a glass with guests who have come through our doors to mark birthdays, graduations, first dates, weddings, anniversaries, and many more life events, and I’m thrilled that they chose Purnell’s for all those occasions.”
The chef added that Plates by Purnell’s on Edmund Street in Birmingham and The Mount by Glynn Purnell in Henley-in-Arden remain open for business as usual.
“I’m excited for the future and the next steps in my journey; this isn’t the last you’ve heard of [me]. I’m truly honoured to have played my part in the culinary history of this great city.”
