Smiths Authentic British Fish & Chips to stay open for another 6 months after rental reduction
Smiths Authentic Fish & Chips lives on after receiving rental reduction from its landlord.
PHOTO: Instagram/Smithsfishandchips, Image from Google
PUBLISHED ONJuly 22, 2025 8:03 AMBYAmierul RashidIt's been a rocky few months for Smiths Authentic British Fish & Chips.
As early as March, the restaurant announced that it would be closing its doors due to rising rental and operational costs.
Fans will be relieved to learn that the popular fish and chips joint, located in Bukit Timah, is set to continue operating for the next six months, at least.
Smiths Authentic British Fish & Chips announced the positive news on Instagram last Sunday (July 20).
The caption read: "After our last update, we're delighted to let you know that our landlord has kindly agreed to a rental reduction — giving us the chance to stay open for another six months, with the option to continue even further after a review."
In response to AsiaOne's query, Smiths Authentic British Fish & Chips mentioned that this rental reduction has brought them "a lot of relief and hope".
They also noted that there is even a possibility of another six-month extension after this, though nothing is set in stone at this juncture.
They added: "A review will be conducted closer to the end of this first term to assess the situation and decide on the next steps."
They were unable to share specific details regarding the rental reduction.
In the caption of their post announcing the extension, Smiths Authentic British Fish & Chips also noted the unwavering support they have received since news of the eatery's potential closure broke.
It read: "We've been truly touched by all your messages, visits and love over the past few months. It's because of you that Smiths lives on."
The restaurant told AsiaOne that response from regulars has been "truly heartwarming", with many sending love in the form of kind messages as well as trips to Bukit Timah to enjoy a meal at their restaurant.
They said: "It's been a beautiful reminder of how much Smiths means to our community and we're really grateful."
Smiths seems to be one among several eateries and brands in Singapore that are dealing with challenging rental costs in the F&B industry.
In May, Flor Patisserie headed online in hopes that the government would consider implementing rent control policies.
This was after their landlord had imposed a 57 per cent increase on their rental fees upon renewal of their lease in July.
Flor's owner Heidi Tan mentioned that she never thought her relatively non-accessible outlet could be worth $8,500 in monthly rent.
High rental fees is also a cause for concern beyond the F&B industry in Singapore.
Reports emerged in June that a general practitioner clinic successfully bid $52,188 for a unit in Tampines, the highest per square foot rent that the Housing Development Boar has ever received for a clinic of that size.
The bid prompted Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung to express concern about the high rental cost leading to higher healthcare costs for residents.
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