Bailiffs have repossessed a building housing one of Kent’s most celebrated eateries – leaving customers and residents shocked.
For more than two decades, the No Name Shop and Bistro has brought a distinctly French flavour to the historic town of Sandwich.
Established in the early 2000s by Dominique Levet, it gained a reputation that reached well beyond Kent, drawing praise from across Europe for its produce and dining.
Yet this week, the shutters came down.
A legal notice affixed to the door states that Mr Levet, who remains the landlord, has instructed bailiffs to repossess the premises from current tenants Paula Reid and David Scudder, who assumed control of the shop and adjoining bistro in March 2020.
No explanation has been offered for the abrupt action, which has forced the business to close indefinitely.
Debt collectors Court Enforcement Services state in its notice: “We have this day re-entered the premises and as a consequence of such a re-entry, your right to occupy the premises has been brought to an end and the premises has been secured.
“No person may lawfully enter onto these premises unless they have been authorised by the landlords/agents to do so.”
The news prompted an outpouring of support on social media, with many lamenting the loss of a much-loved institution.
David Atkins, a local resident, wrote: “Hospitality is a real tough business at this moment, very sad, lots failing and many more for sale.”
Another, Sue Clayson, added: “That’s awful. Fancy putting that on the door.
“ I know it’s probably a legal requirement, but it’s so bloody sad when a business tries their hardest but just doesn’t quite make it.”
As recently as February, the establishment was lauded in a KentOnline review as “a delightful trove of French produce, preserves and most importantly, cheese”.
“From giant tins of confit duck and jars of pickles to a charcuterie counter, patisserie stand and freshly baked baguettes,” our reviewer added.
The closure comes at a difficult time for the sector.
Hospitality businesses across Kent have faced a multitude of challenges since the pandemic.
Rising energy costs, staff shortages, increased rents, and changing consumer habits have seen dozens of pubs, cafés and restaurants close their doors in the past two years.
Industry groups have sounded the alarm over independent operators in smaller towns being particularly vulnerable.
The current management team have declined to comment, citing legal sensitivities.
