Renowned chef Mark Best has announced that his Surry Hills restaurant Marque will close down on 30 June, 2016.

In a media statement, Best said, “After 17 years of creative, personal and emotional investment in this small space I have decided it’s time for change. It is of course with mixed emotions that I have made this decision, however it seems sensible, timely and prudent to do so. The personal investment in a small business takes its toll, and it’s with a combination of a sense of loss, pride and relief that I bring this phase of my career to a close.

“My partners in Pei Modern in Melbourne and at The Four Seasons in Sydney will be pleased to have my full attention as each establishment goes under a significant refurbishment later this year. I remain a proud ambassador for AEG domestic appliances and a member of the culinary panel for Holland America Line, and I will continue to be involved in restaurant brand consultancy,” he said.

Marque alumni include Brent Savage from Bentley Restaurant and Bar and Dan Hong from Merivale’s Mr Wong and Ms G’s.

Best said, “Above all I’d like to acknowledge our customers of the last 17 years; I thank you for your support and for allowing me to do what I love.”

The final service will be on Thursday 30 June.