The Log Fire Pizza Company, a restaurant renowned for its high-quality pizzas, has announced it will close its doors this weekend. Owners Craig and Sarah Shelmerdine shared the news on Wednesday evening, stating that after giving it everything they've got, they hope to return one day.
A success story from food truck to waterfront restaurant
Logfire Pizza Co. began as a food truck, serving at local events and travelling across the region before opening a restaurant at The Waterfront in Mill Dam, near The Customs House in South Shields, in 2024. The business has continued to receive glowing reviews for its pizzas and Sunday dinners.
Owners cite tough trading conditions
In a Facebook post announcing the closure, Craig and Sarah wrote: 'After a lot of thought, we’ve made the difficult decision that this will be our final week of trading, and we’ll be closing our doors on Saturday. We’ve given it everything we’ve got, but the reality of running an independent hospitality business in the current climate has finally caught up with us. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve built, from the original food truck to the Waterfront, and truly grateful to everyone who has supported us along the way.'
They urged regulars to visit before Saturday, adding: 'Until Saturday, we’ll be open as normal, so come down, have a pizza and a pint, and help us finish the Log Fire story the way it started — with good food and good people.'
Customers react with sadness
Customers responded with disappointment. One wrote: 'I'm so sorry to read this. You’ve got a very cool set up there, great place for a drink and outstanding food and always a good atmosphere.' Another said: 'So so sorry to hear this Craig and Sarah, you've worked soo hard and your place is an absolutely amazing gem of a place. I love it there, the food is great, the atmosphere is great and the place is so lovely. I'm gutted for you guys.'
