A steakhouse has suddenly shut down after less than a year in business. Boka at The Palms Hotel, Hornchurch, has now ceased trading, reportedly confirming the closure on Monday, March 2. Staff at the restaurant say they have been left “in limbo”.
The Palms Hotel has distanced itself from Boka, saying that the hotel and restaurant operated separately, with Boka having its “own independent management structure.” A spokesperson for The Palms said: “We must clarify that Palms Hotel London Ltd was not the employer of any staff employed by Boka Restaurant and had no involvement in employment matters or the decision to cease trading.”
The reason behind the closure remains unconfirmed, with The Palms Hotel claiming the circumstances surrounding it are “now the subject of legal proceedings.”
The Palms spokesperson continued: “Boka Restaurant’s management was solely responsible for all operational decisions, including all employment matters, and Palms Hotel London Ltd had no involvement in or control over such decisions.
“Palms Hotel London Ltd was informed of the decision to cease trading only after it had been taken by Boka Restaurant’s management, and Palms Hotel London Ltd had no involvement in or advance notice of this decision.”
Jayabalan Gukanesan, the restaurant’s director, resigned on February 25, according to the Romford Recorder.
Ensure our latest news headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as Preferred Source in your Google search settings.
A former employee told the Romford Recorder that Boka is “relaunching” under a new name; however, neither the hotel nor the restaurant has confirmed this.
On the restaurant’s website and social media pages, there is currently no announcement about the change.
A description of the restaurant online reads: “Welcome to Boka, where bold flavours and warm hospitality come together.
“We specialise in premium steaks and vibrant Mediterranean cuisine, blending the finest cuts of meat with fresh herbs, olive oil, and sun-kissed ingredients.
“Whether you’re here for a perfectly grilled ribeye or a colourful mezze platter, every dish is crafted with care and inspired by the coastal kitchens of the Mediterranean.”
