Leytonstone’s legendary Thai canteen Singburi has closed for a “sabbatical” of at least two months, to allow the family behind it to take stock after a quarter of century’s hard work.

Described in the 2024 Harden’s guide as “wildly popular” for the “fabulous and authentic” dishes listed daily on a blackboard menu, the tiny cash-only BYO is booked weeks ahead by fans.

Chef Sirichai Kularbwong announced the closure in an enigmatic Instagram post that hinted at the possibility of change. It read: “So… for the moment we are going on sabbatical a little earlier than expected. We are now closed for this year.

“It has been twenty five years since we began as a fish and chip shop, wondering if we could pay the rent… to this.

“It’s been a lot of years watching Mum wrap her spring rolls and helping Dad make Tod Mun Pla. It has been a lot of years of graft and commiserating but we are in a position to fondly reminisce.

“But now, for the moment we need time to ruminate, as we have not had as much time for ourselves.

“See you, when we see you.”