Esquire and Esq, Ryan Squires’s elegant fine diner and his more casual spin-off at Eagle Street Pier, are closing.

We knew this day was coming. The chef has been anticipating the end of his lease – and the subsequent closure of his two restaurants – since at least January 2016, when Broadsheet launched in Brisbane.

Still, the email announcement and its blunt subject line, “esq. & esquire calls it a day | CLOSING Thurs March 29TH” came as a shock to Esq and Esquire subscribers.

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A statement from Squires read:

“I wish to thank all who dined at esq. & esquire over its seven years in operation, a massive thank you.
I have not come to this decision lightly as I have very much enjoyed the experience but felt for a number of reasons this was the right time to close the restaurant.

“I would like to thank all those involved and who supported me, especially my hard-working and loyal staff, my parents, friends and acquaintances.

“Not to mention the countless regulars; when in the restaurant made me smile & forget about the ongoing conundrums.

“I enjoyed my time.

“It is now my intention to have a break before looking for new opportunities in this creative industry.

“Much respect.”

Broadsheet reached out to Squires and his management team this afternoon to learn more. Staff at the restaurants said they were not authorised to talk about the closure. Calls to Squires direct went to voicemail. We will update this story if and when we hear more.

Esq and Esquire will serve their last customers on March 29, 2018 before closing for good.

Esquire
145 Eagle Street, Brisbane
(07) 3220 2123

Esq
145 Eagle Street, Brisbane
(07) 3220 2123

esquire.net.au/