The popular Blackhorse Tavern Restaurant has temporarily closed its doors due to the sudden departure of key staff, leaving the restaurant unable to operate.On Valentine’s Day two senior employees, including the chef and manager, left the restaurant without warning with 100 people booked for holiday meals.“We were very busy that day — of all days (to leave),” said owner Gary Lamb in an interview with The Royal Gazette.This isn’t the first time the two long-time employees have walked out, explained Mr Lamb, but they usually come back the next day.The decision was made to close the restaurant’s doors so that the management could figure out their next steps and start looking for the right replacement staff.Despite the situation, the owner doesn’t hold anything against the ex-employees.“They are good people, good workers and you don’t find good workers every day,” said Mr Lamb, who has been running the East End restaurant since 1980 which is known for its friendly staff.Overlooking the water, the long-time eatery has been a favourite with locals and tourists alike — serving up Bermuda lobsters, fish sandwiches and conch fritters.Blackhorse Tavern recently reopened in late January after a month-long break for the staff, which consists of nine full and part-timers.“We do it every year for staff,” said Mr Lamb.The restaurant also closes over Cup Match to so that employees can enjoy the holiday, he added.Through radio advertisements, Facebook page and their phone answering service, the restaurant apologised for any inconvenience the closing caused their steady customers.“We have an immensely loyal customer base,” said Heather Lamb, Mr Lamb’s daughter-in-law.“While we weren’t able to accommodate them on Valentine’s Day, we want to encourage them to come back in the future so we can do something special for them.”Mr Lamb said that the busy pub will open again next week, even if he, or his sons, are the ones manning the kitchen.“Oh yes, we will mate — come down to see us,” he said.