In a statement, Brett said that ongoing building work, which has covered the façade of the restaurant for three years, contributed to the decision to move.
Brett launched Ondine Oyster & Grill in Edinburgh’s Old Town in 2009.
The restaurant, which has been described by Brett as a ‘proper seafood restaurant’, is considered an institution in the Scottish capital and has previously featured on the National Restaurant Awards Top 100 list.
A new location for Ondine is yet to be confirmed, but Brett said it will be in Edinburgh’s city centre.
“It is with mixed emotions that we share the news that after 15 years, Ondine will close its doors on George IV Bridge at the end of this year,” he said.
“In 2021, Ondine transformed the entire look and feel of the restaurant to emulate a ship at sea with a very clever window display. Due to unforeseen circumstances out of our control, the restaurant’s exterior was completely covered in scaffolding, forcing Ondine to change its entire appearance.
“Our landlord has advised works will now be ongoing for much longer than previously anticipated. This being the case we have reached the point where we feel our amazing team and loyal customers deserve better.
“So, after 15 fantastic years, we have decided that our time here must come to an end, and our final service will be our Hogmanay Celebration on December 31.
“This is not a decision we have made lightly. Ondine means so much to many, not only to myself and my family but also to our customers, who have almost become family over the years. However, we are not going away, we will be moving to brand new premises within the city centre very soon.”
As well as relocating Ondine in Edinburgh, Brett is also preparing to open an outpost at upcoming St Andrews five-star boutique hotel Seaton House.
First announced in December last year, it will be one of two restaurants Brett is expected to oversee at Seaton House, the other being an as-yet-unnamed all-day restaurant, bar, and lounge.
Brett continued: “Thanks to our long-standing partnership with our great friends at Valor Hospitality, we are proud to be opening Ondine Oyster & Grill in Seaton House, St Andrews.
“It’s shaping up to be a fantastic year and we can’t wait to get started!”
