Monday, June 24, 2024, 10:00 a.m.
The iconic Beigel Shop in Brick Lane is reopening this week. The family that owns the popular late-night spot reveal why it suddenly closed in February.
The famous yellow-fronted purveyor will start serving smoked salmon again on Wednesday 26 June after being closed for almost 20 weeks.
Previously, the Beigel Shop in Brick Lane – known as “the Yellow” – closed in mid-February when a law firm took possession of the building.
At the time, there was much speculation as to why the business had closed its doors. A letter from the company stated: “Please be advised that we have taken possession of the above-mentioned property. Any attempt to re-enter the said property is a criminal offence and will be prosecuted for trespass and criminal damage.”
All enquiries regarding this property should be directed to Thirsk Winton LLP.”
The operating family has now announced the reasons for the closure, citing financial problems, internal disputes and health concerns.
In a statement released today, they announced the reopening of their “cherished family business” just a stone’s throw from the city.
It thanked supporters during a “difficult chapter” of the closure of the Beigel Shop, which opened in 1855.
The statement explains the reason for the closure: “Under the leadership of siblings Aron, David and Mazal, our family has put their heart and soul into this restaurant for decades, maintained relationships and drank fresh, warm beigels with generations of regulars.”
Recently, we have faced challenges including complex family dynamics and health setbacks common in many extended family businesses.
It said the February closure was “the culmination of a long-running family dispute over the ownership of the building and the resulting rents, as well as the health problems of our beloved father and uncle Aron, who is still recovering from a heart attack and several strokes.”
“Despite these difficulties, we are determined to move forward with renewed strength and optimism,” they said.
Looking ahead to the upcoming reopening, the family said, “As the next chapter begins, the younger generation, including Aron’s 22-year-old quadruplets and Mazal’s three children, are eager to continue the Beigel Shop’s cherished legacy by taking over the business.”
“However, we are aware of the financial hurdles that lie ahead, from doubling rent to machine upgrades and necessary renovations, including some electrical upgrades, which contributed to our temporary closure.”
In addition to raising the next generation, the company has launched a GoFundMe campaign to “ease some of these financial burdens” and ask for donations to help “rebuild our business and preserve a valuable piece of East London’s heritage.”
The fundraising target has been set at £50,000, with three main objectives to raise the money. It is said that a new Beigel machine is needed as the ‘old’ machine breaks down frequently and slows down production. Repairs to the workshop and a brand new oven are also required.
To encourage donations, the first 50 customers to donate more than £5 will be offered a Beigel Shop shopping bag.