15/02/2026
As we approach the end of our first year we find ourselves in somewhat of a crossroads. The vision that 11/17 is, was developed from fond childhood memories of Salt Beef with my late father. Our dream was to make this available in Stratford as it’s a dish mostly enjoyed in London. During our development we contemplated over a small restaurant or street food approach which ultimately was then decided to do both. As with every new business trying different angles, figuring out what works and of course what doesn’t is inevitable. One thing we couldn’t foresee is the drastic increases in what feels like everything.
Hospitality works on small margins, We were perfectly aware of that however the constant rises make those small margins virtually non existent. Thankfully our event pop up’s were able to subsidise our shop but this is not sustainable or frankly necessary. Obviously when we consider the dream 11/17 wasn’t about getting rich (I’d be foolish to think that). But it was to be a profitable business. Sadly popularity when it comes to bricks and mortar doesn’t mean profitable. The stark comparison of event revenue vs premise revenue is too great to ignore and any business owner would be unwise to do that.
So we have made the sad decision to close our lovely little shop in Shrieves Walk with immediate effect. Our full focus is now on our event/private functions. All vouchers and promotions that may be held by customers will be useable at our events which we will promote heavily.
I’d like to take this opportunity to ask that we all choose local and independent whenever we can. Independent businesses do not have off shore accounts to avoid taxes, they do not have multi million pound franchises to prop them up. Independent businesses are braving this rocky rollercoaster that the Houses of Parliament continue to make even more scary alone.
In summary, 11/17 is not gone, we remain very much around but in street form. We are so grateful for all your support this last year and hope to see those familiar faces at upcoming events. Also remember if you do need a party catered for, big or small, drop us a call.
Love and Best Wishes
Elena
11/17 Salt Beef owner
