Restaurant closure list climbs during COVID-affected summer

Despite a COVID-cruelled period that some Sydney restaurateurs are quietly calling their worst summer on record, the number of restaurant closures remains below industry forecasts. But there have been casualties.

Manly stalwart Out of Africa shut temporarily last year with hopes of reopening, but is now officially listed with ASIC as in liquidation. Its phone has been disconnected.

Newtown staple Lentil As Anything has also departed, an update on social media providing a stark insight into its last days, declaring the landlord "has changed the locks and taken possession of the premises".

"This is due to us being unable to reach an agreement on an appropriate rent in light of the impact of COVID.

And last month, chef Michael Rantissi announced he would not renew the lease at Kepos & Co, the pint-sized Waterloo foodie favourite that punched above its weight and snared chefs' hats. Its last service is on February 19.