A Southampton restaurant has been forced to shut its doors after two decades – with managers blaming “issues” linked to a migrant hotel next door.
Ceno Bar and Restaurant finally ceased trading on New Year’s Day.
The hotel – which shares a building with the restaurant – currently houses 100 “asylum seekers” on behalf of the Home Office.
A spokesman for Ceno said: “It is with great sadness that we announce that Ceno Restaurant closed its doors on January 1, 2026.”
They added: “Despite every effort to continue trading, it has become frustratingly impossible to operate due to ongoing issues connected with the Highfield Hotel in which we are located, which has now become home to over 100 illegal immigrants.”
The restaurant’s management outlined several specific complaints about their situation.
“The hotel owners have ignored our communication for help to assist with ongoing damage caused by the hotel residents and have locked the car park for many months, meaning our customers have been unable to park and access the restaurant,” they said.
The venue claims the past five years proved particularly difficult after the hotel was closed off to the public.
Ceno Bar and Restaurant, which shares premises with Highfield House Hotel, ceased trading on New Year’s Day
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Management also claimed they received no meaningful assistance from either Hampshire Police or Southampton City Council throughout their ordeal.
The eatery had leased its premises for the entirety of its 20-year existence, building a loyal customer base during that time before the migrants allegedly made its continued operation untenable.
Loyal patrons also voiced their dismay at losing the popular venue, which had earned a 4.6-star rating on TripAdvisor.
Curt Wright commented: “Thank you for the exceptional service and some of the nights I have spent in the place, without a doubt one of the best atmospheres and nicest places to have a drink and chill out.”
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Management claimed they received no meaningful assistance from Southampton City Council (pictured)
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Kayleigh Hilton described herself as “absolutely devastated,” noting that “so many of our most precious memories have been at this Ceno site.”
Regular Debbie Kennett recounted witnessing verbal abuse directed at staff from hotel windows above the restaurant.
She also alleged that residents had burned holes in a new awning and deliberately played loud music to cause disruption.
“The guy who’s restaurant it was, did his best to stay open,” Ms Kennett added.
The hotel has become a focal point for demonstrations in recent months, with protesters frequently delivering speeches from the wall adjacent to the restaurant.
The Highfield House Hotel site has become a focal point for weekly anti-immigration demonstrations
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These gatherings have consistently drawn counter-demonstrations from “anti-racism campaigners”, meaning there has also been a regular police presence at the location.
Despite the challenging circumstances, the restaurant’s management thanked customers.
“Most of all, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to our wonderful customers and those members of the Highfield community and beyond who have supported us right up until New Year’s Eve,” the spokesman said.
“Your loyalty and kindness have meant more to us than words can say.”
The team confirmed they intend to find new premises and make a comeback by spring.