Bistro Live closes

The entertainment venue based in the CBX building in Milton Keynes has permanently closed

Bistro Live has officially ceased trading at all three of its UK venues as of 11pm last night, with the company now in the early stages of liquidation and formal closure.

The entertainment and hospitality operator, which runs sites including those in Leicester, Nottingham and Milton Keynes, has begun returning its premises to landlords. Customers and former staff are urged to collect any personal belongings from the locations today or tomorrow.

Bistro Live posted this message on their website:

After much reflection, and with very heavy hearts, we have made the incredibly difficult decision to permanently close Bistro Live after 25 unforgettable years. This decision has not come easily, but the ongoing economic challenges facing hospitality in the UK have made it impossible for us to continue. To every customer who danced on our tables, celebrated milestones with us, supported us through the years or recommended us to friends, … thank you. We are deeply proud of what we created, and grateful for every moment shared within these walls.

From all of us at Bistro Live, thank you for being part of our story.

The business’s collapse follows ongoing financial strain following the pandemic and quieter trading in recent months, despite a pre-pack deal in late 2025 that at the time had secured more than 100 jobs. That arrangement had seen the company sold to new owners in a bid to keep venues open, but persistent debt and cashflow issues appear to have proved insurmountable.

Those affected by the closures are advised to reach out to the respective venue operators for support with existing bookings.

Bistro Live has provided the following information for customers:

"We understand that many of our customers will have questions regarding existing bookings, deposits, and payments following the closure of Bistro Live.  We’ve answered the most common questions below and thank you in advance for your patience and understanding during this difficult time.

1. I have an upcoming booking — will it still go ahead?

Our final day of opening across all Bistro Live locations was:

Saturday 31st January 2026

As this date has now passed, all future bookings will unfortunately not be able to go ahead.

2. Are all Bistro Live venues closing?

Yes — Bistro Live has permanently closed across all locations:

• Leicester

• Nottingham

• Milton Keynes

3. I paid a deposit or made a payment in advance — will I receive a refund?

We are currently working through the process for refunds - and will provide clear guidance on this to affected customers in due course.

4. Do I need to contact you to request my refund?

In most cases, no — we will contact you to let you know the process.

However, if you have concerns or believe you are owed a refund and have not yet heard from us, please email:

info@bistrolive.com

Please include:

• Booking Name (who organised your booking)

• Date of booking

• Booking reference

• Location (Leicester / Nottingham / Milton Keynes)

• Date, amount and method of your payment

5. I have a credit note — can I still use it or request a refund?

Credit notes are issued as a gesture of goodwill to customers who did not attend on the evening.

Unfortunately, as such, credit notes cannot be honoured or refunded following the permanent closure of the business.

6. What is the best way to reach you?

For all enquiries relating to bookings, deposits, or refunds, please contact:

info@bistrolive.com

7. Will Bistro Live reopen in the future?

Bistro Live has now permanently closed, and there are no plans for reopening.

We want to thank every guest who supported us over the years — it has meant the world.

A Final Thank You

To everyone who visited Bistro Live in Leicester, Nottingham, or Milton Keynes — thank you for your support, your celebrations, and the memories shared with us over the years.