A mystery remains over the future of a popular High Wycombe Caribbean restaurant after its former premises was taken over by a new food business.
James William Diners, on Crendon Street, announced in June that it was closing on a temporary basis as part of a planned relocation.
At the time, the restaurant told customers it would be moving to a new site, but no further details about its new location have been announced.
Since then, workmen have been regularly seen at the premises carrying out extensive work, with the interior stripped back and fitted out for a new business.
The site is now branded as Sami's Kebab Shop, although work is still ongoing and no opening date has been confirmed.
Once it opens, it is expected to become the first dedicated kebab shop on Crendon Street.
The change marks the end of James William Diners' presence at the address, where the Caribbean restaurant built up a loyal customer base during its time in the town centre.
The eatery held a 4.6-star rating from 233 Google reviews before closing.
One customer wrote: "Visited JWD this Saturday just gone (14/3/26).
"Absolutely amazing authentic and tasty food.
"We ordered the jerk chicken and some sides and it was truly excellent.
"As a BBQ nerd, I was intrigued to try the brisket too.
"Having tried a few so-called BBQ restaurants in search of authentic BBQ brisket and never finding it, I was blown away to finally get it in a small Caribbean restaurant in the town I grew up in.
"Really, really good.
"The owner (Andrew) was also super friendly and gracious with his time and gave me a little insight into his brisket process.
"Staff very helpful and friendly also."
Another one reads: “Fantastic food, second time trying and was as good as the first visit two weeks ago.
“Regret driving past this place daily for the last two years and not giving it ago.
“I’m not one to review food, but I will when it’s worth it and this is.
“Staff are great too.
“Try and you will not be disappointed.”
The restaurant enjoyed national recognition during its time in High Wycombe, winning a national award in 2024.
Adding to the uncertainty over its future, the James William Diners website remains active despite the closure of its Crendon Street premises.
While the former restaurant unit is preparing for a new chapter, the whereabouts of James William Diners remains unclear, with no confirmed details yet released about where the business plans to relocate.
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