Kosher restaurant 1701 has taken its last orders at the historic Bevis Marks Synagogue in the City of London, less than two years after opening.

In a statement, 1701 said "the historical connection with Bevis Marks has been wonderful but unfortunately the location has proved limiting. We now feel it necessary to relocate to realise our full potential. A new site has been identified with a landlord who shares our vision.

"We are very proud of the wonderful reputation that our unique contemporary take on Jewish cuisine has already garnered. We intend to build on this by rolling out the 1701 brand into other channels such as event catering, fine dining deliveries and a retail presence."

Interviewed subsequently, 1701 owner Lionel Salama was cagey over future plans. But he did say he had heeded customer feedback that a more centrally based London venue would be preferable. "The reality of operating inside a synagogue is difficult," he added. "If there is a wedding ceremony, you cannot run a normal service." There had been no problem with the Sephardi Kashrut Authority, which licensed the Bevis Marks operation, but the likelihood was that the new premises would be under London Beth Din jurisdiction. He hoped to reveal the location within the next few weeks.

1701's fine dining interpretation of Jewish dishes from around the world earned it a place in the Great Britain & Ireland Michelin Guide. While signature dishes included braised lamb neck in filo pastry, it also offered traditional fare such as chicken soup.

We feel it necessary to relocate to realise our full potential