An iconic Isle of Wight restaurant owned by award-winning chef Robert Thompson will close its doors next weekend, but a new, exciting venture has been teased.

Thompson's, on Town Lane, opened in 2015 as a contemporary open-kitchen restaurant, offering a modern British menu inspired by the flavours of the Island. 

The restaurant initially closed in 2020, when the first Covid-19 lockdown was announced in March and reopened in January 2023 for lunch and dinner on Fridays and Saturdays, following six weeks of refurbishment.

Isle of Wight County Press: Thompson's restaurant from South Street in NewportThompson's restaurant from South Street in Newport (Image: IWCP)

In a statement, Robert has confirmed the venue will close its doors for the final time after service on Saturday, February 17.

In December, food reviewers Matt and Cat visited the restaurant, concluding, "Thompson's is still right up there, making us gasp with joy at the food on our plates."

Robert said: "To say it's been a blast is an understatement. I've met many guests and employed many staff, and I feel privileged every time I unlock and lock the door.

"The support I've received has been immense, and my sincere thanks go to my family, friends, colleagues and, of course, guests. It's that same support that fuels me every day."

It's not the end though, as in early March, Robert's new restaurant, RTCafeGrill, will launch with Thompson's following in the Autumn - in a new, fully designed space.

A licensing application made to the IW Council revealed proposals to turn Royal Maritime House, on St Thomas's Street, Ryde, into RTCaféGrill and Thompson's.

Plans show RTCafeGrill would be on the ground floor, alongside a lounge, bar and garden bar area, with the lower ground floor for Thompson’s.

The Town Lane building is currently listed through Gully Howard, with offers in the region of £295,000 invited.