Caribbean restaurant in Nottingham city centre closes after a 'great ride'

A popular Caribbean restaurant in Nottingham city centre has closed its doors "for now" after the owner told customers that he had "had enough". Clinton Walker said running Spice Cay "had been a great ride" but "full of ups and downs" upon making the closure announcement this week.

Talking on a video posted on the Pelham Street venue's Facebook page on Thursday (November 7), Mr Walker said: "Closing down a business you built with your bare hands literally from a blank box is tough."

But he did not rule out a return "in another form" and said he was looking to sublease the property following the closure. He thanked his loyal customers for their support over almost three years, highlighting that some had told him it was like a "second home" to them.

Mr Walker said: "Words alone cannot express the feeling, the journey, the joy, the laughter and awesome conversations I have had with customers, passers-by and the community. I appreciate those little things.

"This is is my third restaurant - my first was near Nottingham Castle. It has been tough but a big shout-out to the chefs, waiting staff and front-of-house team and to those who have been with us in spirit, if not physically.

"It has been a financial, emotional and mental strain and I have had enough. It's sad and not easy for me. It was my baby and I put everything into it, such as painting and furniture. I just needed to know when to step off. I am going to take time to reflect and recharge."

The restaurant had a 4.5 rating on TripAdvisor over 47 reviews, with the most recent being a five-star top rating in October, which said: "Been here three times now and service always been great, food & drinks the best! Drinks are strong & affordable really nice venue as well." It was described on the site as "a fusion of authentic Caribbean cuisine offering plentiful dishes, exotic ingredients and bold flavours, perfect for sharing with your favourite people".

Mr Walker, a cyber security expert, said on Thursday that he was clearing up the business and by Saturday (November 9), there was a notice on the door announcing it was "permanently closed".