Howard’s end as final whistle sounds for Elland Rd restaurant

Howard’s closed its doors for good shortly after United’s last home game of the season against Brighton & Hove Albion last Saturday.

Situated at the corner of the stadium’s West and South stands, it opened in late 2010.

Howard’s was operated by Levy Restaurants, which is part of the Compass Group catering giant.

The firm has a contract for catering facilities throughout Elland Road, including Billy’s Bar in the stadium’s South Stand.

In a statement, Levy said: “We can confirm that Howard’s restaurant is now closed.

“We would like to thank all of our guests for their amazing support and can confirm we will continue to provide a range of great food and drink facilities across the stadium, including Billy’s Bar which will remain open seven days a week.”

Asked about the reason for the closure, a spokesman for Levy was unable to immediately elaborate. He was also unable to say whether Howard’s had been running at a loss.

The restaurant was opened as part of a push by United chairman Ken Bates to improve the food and drink facilities at Elland Road. Its glass dome roof is said to have been inspired by that of his favourite restaurant in Monaco.

United’s game against Brighton was Mr Bates’s final home fixture as chairman. He will officially stand down on June 30 before beginning a three-year term as club president.