An award-winning Japanese restaurant in Dorchester has suddenly closed its doors.  

Myra Kaiseki located on High East Street has stopped trading due to the ill health of its owners.

The restaurant was well renowned for its fine Japanese dining had recently won a coveted Good Food Award in the fine dining, restaurant and product category.

In 2022, the restaurant was also recognised by Tripadvisor, making the top 10 of its Hidden Gems in the UK list.

The sudden closure has come as a shock to people in the area, with some taking to social media to praise the restaurant and wish the owners well.

One person commented: “It’s such a shame. I went a few times, and it was always a pleasure.”

Another added: “They were always well rated. A case of if you don’t use it, you lose it.”

A third person said: “I had several delicious evenings there and their food was delicious, and her husband was so polite and fabulous front of house – I wish them well.”

The restaurant’s website is no longer active, and the business has now been put up for sale through Everett Masson Furby, with a leasehold of £10,000.

A description of the business on the company’s website said: “Previously a renowned destination eating venue, recently closed due to owners’ ill health, can easily and quickly be re-opened with minimal work and cost required, a range of fixtures, fittings, and equipment already in situ with a new negotiable Lease available.”