One of New Westminster's most innovative restaurants will close its doors for good this Sunday.

The Orange Room, at 620 Sixth St., served unique tapas dishes with a mix of art and culture for almost two years.

But a combination of high rent, overhead and the HST meant running the uptown eatery proved too much, and now a dozen workers will be looking for new jobs come Nov. 8.

"We were told three weeks ago," said executive chef Darin Wall. "We had our high points here, but with things like the HST coming in, there was a massive dip in business and that really hurt."

Wall said the orderly shutdown of the restaurant meant employees were paid out in full, including severance.

"We were treated with pure class," said Wall, who's already lined up his next gig, working in the kitchen of the renovated Horizons Restaurant on Burnaby Mountain, set to open on Nov. 24.

On the home webpage of the restaurant, www.

theorangeroomtapas.com, the closing is noted at the top of the page.

"Well, that's it. After a little over a year-and-a-half, we have to say good-bye. We'll stay open until Sunday, November 7, at our usual hours. Depending on staff availability we may open for brunch the following weekend, November 13 and 14. We'll keep you posted.

"Thanks to everyone for their patronage. We've enjoyed serving you and hopefully you'll be able to drop in and say good-bye!"

Wall said the restaurant will be offering some discounts this weekend, and he's encouraging people to come in and give the Orange Room one last try.