It reopened a day later, with its owner back “slinging wings” once more
Gurt Wings at Wapping Wharf on its opening day (Friday, February 28, 2025)(Image: Paul Gillis/Reach Plc)
A hugely popular local chicken wing restaurant has issued a heartfelt message following a break-in at the venue, just months after it opened.
Gurt Wings, located at the Cargo 2 site at Wapping Wharf, opened back in February, marking the Bristol business’ first ever physical restaurant in the city.
Known and loved for its vast array of wings formerly sold via travelling food truck, and regular appearances at foodie festivals like Wing Fest, the restaurant also serves up beers, ciders and cocktails.
Owner James Mitchell, known as Gurty, shared a series of messages via Instagram over the weekend to let fans and foodies know about the incident.
The first, posted on Saturday, June 21, said: “We’ve had a break in. That’s right. Unfortunately we have been broken into overnight at our Wapping Wharf Bristol restaurant.
“We are doing everything we can to get the restaurant right and back up and running. We are currently closed and will update on here when we will be back open.
Founder of Gurt Wings in Bristol, Gurty (James), is opening at a new Wapping Wharf location(Image: Gurt Wings)
“Apologies for any inconvenience caused. Obviously we did not expect this to happen.
“Thank you for all your support. We will do everything we can to be back open and slinging wings as soon as possible.”
Taking to the comments section, fans and local neighbouring businesses were among those to share their support and shock following the incident.
One said: “Oh no that’s so bad. Hope it isn’t too bad damage wise and that you’re all okay.”
A second commented: “As if I needed more of a reason to buy more wings. Will be in to support soon!”
While a third wrote: “So awful! Damaging small local businesses. I hope they’re caught. Hope it’s not too much damage.”
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A day later (Sunday, June 22) the team took to Instagram once more to update followers. In a heartfelt message, they gave ‘a huge thank you’ and said: “Yesterday, as you may already know we were unfortunately broken into at our Wapping Wharf Bristol restaurant.
“This is our new spot that we opened early this year and have been so proud. Being able to bring a GURT restaurant to Bristol has been incredible and a life long goal was certainly achieved the minute we opened the doors!
“We just wanted to take a second to say thank you for all the amazing people who sent us messages over the last 24 hours. The response has been amazing and we are truly overwhelmed with the support and love that we have been shown.”
The team also confirmed the restaurant is now reopen again, adding: “We are slinging wings, strips, tots and squeaky cheese STIX bigger and better than ever!
“If you’re craving a delicious meal this weekend then please pop by and see us for some fried chicken! Big love Bristol and to everyone out there. See you soon.”
BristolLive has contacted Gurt Wings and Avon and Somerset Police for further comment.