Sumi, a bistro and bakery located in the Krulli Quarter of Tallinn, will cease operations in March after just over a year of business. This closure, reported by Äripäev, marks the end of a venture that aimed to expand the culinary presence of Põhjala Brewing, a company primarily known for its craft beers. The decision comes amid the ongoing challenges faced by new restaurants and the competitive nature of the local food scene.

Tiit Paananen, the CEO of Põhjala Brewing, confirmed the closure, stating, "Yes, we are closing down." This succinct statement reflects the practicality of business decisions in the fast-paced food industry, where not all concepts can sustain long-term viability. The Sumi restaurant was part of a broader strategy to diversify and enhance the Põhjala brand, integrating food offerings with their beer products, but it seems that this particular endeavor did not yield the desired success.

The closure of Sumi may resonate with other restaurateurs in Estonia as it underscores the challenges faced in the hospitality sector, particularly in a post-pandemic environment where consumer habits and economic conditions are still fluctuating. It raises questions about the sustainability of new dining concepts and might provoke discussions on what strategies could be employed to better support new establishments in the challenging market landscape.