George Calombaris has announced that he will be closing Melbourne’s The Press Club. The Hellenic fine diner has long been a beloved addition to the southern capital’s fine dining scene, with Calombaris citing a need for change and ‘a reinvention’ at the heart of the decision.

The Masterchef judge took to Instagram to announce the 12-year-old restaurant’s closure, which will take place on June 29. Calombaris is adamant that the choice wasn’t based on finances, but rather he will be bidding goodbye to his flagship eatery so as to introduce something bigger and better in months to come.

“It’s time for a new chapter and to write a whole new book. On 29 June 2019, we will serve our final menu before we enter an exciting phase of reinvention. We are incredibly proud of the past and now more than ever, inspired by the future, he said”

“There will be exciting events over the next few months to celebrate signature dishes and host special guest chefs to celebrate their part in the journey. Join us in what has been and share the excitement for what is to come. Thank you for your support. To the next chapter.”

View this post on Instagram

I won’t lie. These will be the hardest words I have to write. I am emotional. I can’t stop crying but I know good things have to come to an end. @thepressclub has given me everything. Not just me but also thousands who have experienced it. @thepressclub was a dream to put Hellenic ideas on the map. To love the past and to always look forward. Yes, it’s the end. And also the beginning. I am an Aussie. I am a Hellene. We never stop dreaming, thinking and creating. We make mistakes. Lots of them. @thepressclub will always be in my heart and soul – 12 years of memories. More than a restaurant; it’s a place that creates stories, innovation, love and life. We’ve had the privilege to welcome over 600,000 guests, travel our menu across the globe and together, become a family. Now, it’s time for a new chapter and to write a whole new book. On 29 June 2019 we will serve our final menu before we enter an exciting phase of reinvention. We are incredibly proud of the past and now more than ever, inspired by the future. There will be exciting events over the next few months to celebrate signature dishes and host special guest chefs to celebrate their part in the journey. Join us in what has been and share the excitement for what is to come. Thank you for your support. To the next chapter. GC 🧿🇦🇺🇬🇷 xxx

A post shared by George Calombaris (@gcalombaris) on Mar 22, 2019 at 2:52am PDT

Of course, it was no easy decision to make says Calombaris, whose eatery has been named one of Melbourne’s best.

“I won’t lie. These will be the hardest words I have to write. I am emotional. I can’t stop crying but I know good things have to come to an end. @thepressclub has given me everything. Not just me but also thousands who have experienced it. @thepressclub was a dream to put Hellenic ideas on the map. To love the past and to always look forward,” he added.

“Yes, it’s the end. And also the beginning. I am an Aussie. I am a Hellene. We never stop dreaming, thinking and creating. We make mistakes. Lots of them. @thepressclubwill always be in my heart and soul – 12 years of memories. More than a restaurant; it’s a place that creates stories, innovation, love and life. We’ve had the privilege to welcome over 600,000 guests, travel our menu across the globe and together, become a family.”

George Calombaris is delicious.’ travel editor-at-large. Discover the most delicious destinations with George here.