Bad news for Soho’s brunching elite: the future of the beloved all-day café Balans is uncertain after an email allegedly stated the group was ‘no longer trading’ and that ‘all creditors will be contacted in due course’, as reported by the Sun. First opening in Soho in 1987, Balans currently operates two sites: Balans No 60 in Soho and Balans in Kensington. At its peak, the chain boasted eight outposts across London.
Recent Closures and Uncertain Status
Balans East in Stratford and Balans No 34 on Old Compton Street have already shut down. At the end of May, social media users reported that Balans No 60 was closed. By the beginning of June, both Balans No 60 and Balans Kensington appeared as ‘temporarily closed’ on Google. However, at the time of writing, both restaurants are listed as open on Google and are accepting online reservations. Despite this, the future of the group remains uncertain.
Past Struggles and Resilience
The group has faced numerous challenges in recent years. In 2020, it put its restaurant estate up for auction due to difficulties with the Covid pandemic restrictions. After receiving a cash injection, five sites reopened that summer. However, Balans Shepherds Bush shut down later in 2020 amid further restrictions.
A Welcoming LGBTQ+ Hub
Since opening in the 1980s, Balans has become renowned as a welcoming LGBTQ+ hangout. The late-night spot stays open until 4:30 am on Fridays and Saturdays. Over the years, the Soho institution has been frequented by celebrities including Kate Moss, Lady Gaga, Amy Winehouse, and Rowan Atkinson.
Balans was contacted for comment but did not respond. The situation continues to develop as loyal patrons await clarity on the café’s fate.
