Top chef who worked in Michelin star kitchens & cooked for US President has doors of his popular restaurant ‘chained up’
A TOP chef who worked in Michelin star kitchens and cooked for a US president has seen the doors of his popular restaurant chained shut.
Tarek Thoma owns a string of successful restaurants in Middlesbrough, but his venue Oven appears to have closed.
Chains were spotted wrapped around the doors while eviction notices have been slapped on windows, TeessideLive reports.
It is understood landlords took possession of the £500,000 eatery.
Devastated fans shared their fury on social media, one wrote: “After booking a table at the Oven Restaurant Middlesbrough on Monday for tonight for 14 people for a special occasion we turned up to find the establishment chained up and a possession order stuck to the door.”
Another added: “Feel sorry for the staff and owner. Always always nice food and service, one of the better restaurants in Middlesbrough.”
Meanwhile an eviction notice taped to the windows read: “To all and any others this may concern.
“Take notice that the landlord has this day 2 October, 2024, exercised their right to peaceably re-enter and take possession of this premises known as ground floor, 202-204 Linthorpe Road, Middlesbrough, TS1 3QW.
“Any lease or license is hereby determined. This property is now legally occupied by the landlords.
“Any attempt to break into this property will be classed as an attempt to break into this property will be classed as a criminal offence and will be reported to the police.”
Taerek also runs the popular Bazaar, in Captain Cook Square, from which an employee confirmed the downfall of Oven.
A spokesperson for the landlords, Pneuma Group, claimed there had been problems with the tenancy which resulted in the “difficult decision to re-enter our premises”.
Oven was created nearly 10 years ago after opening its doors to hungry customers, and 45 employees, in 2015.
Mr Thoma poured £500,000 into the business, and vowed to provide a Michelin experience for affordable prices.
Outside there is a generous, and stylish seating area, while inside holds enough space for up to 160 people.
The menu offered British, French, Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine, meaning there was something for everyone.
Dishes were prepared by chefs who learnt from professionals with Michelin star training.
Tarek himself previously cooked for President George and Prime Minister Tony Blair.
Tarek, who has also worked at Michelin-starred restaurants including the L’Escargot in London and Chapter One in Kent, previously said: “My staff and I are looking forward to welcoming guests to Oven and serving them with Michelin star-style food at very affordable prices.
“This area of Middlesbrough is becoming a hive of culinary activity and Oven will bring something different to this growing gastronomic scene.”
The Sun contacted Tarek Thoma for comment.