Channel 4 Sunday brunch host Simon Rimmer is 'heartbroken' after confirming the closure of one of his restaurants.
The chef and TV personality confirmed today his very first restaurant, Greens, in Didsbury has closed after 33 years in business. His second site, in Sale will continue trading.
Taking to Instagram to confirm the sad news, Simon said he was "heartbroken" and "couldn't believe" he was having to close down his vegetarian restaurant, which he first opened in 1990 with business partner Simon Connolly.
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A video shared by the chef on the platform explained how a huge rent hike, and rising energy bills, made keeping the restaurant impossible, MEN reports. Simon, originally from Wallasey, told his followers: "Well this is a very sad day. After 33 years of running Greens in Didsbury we've unfortunately had to close the door.
"Our landlords have increased the rent in the region of 35%, the cost of raw materials, the cost of heat, light and power, employing people and general food costs have meant the business has unfortunately become unviable so with immediate effect we have shut the door."
He went on to say it was a "heartbreaking day" and thanked staff who had worked for Greens over the years, as well as suppliers, customers, neighbours and friends.
In the emotional post he added: "I can't believe I'm actually doing this message. Big love, thank you for the last 33 years and hopefully we'll see you in Sale. Lots of love."
The TV star's celebrity friends, fellow business owners and followers were quick to offer their support with many saying how sorry they were. Great British Bake Off star Candice Brown wrote: "Oh Simon I’m devastated for you! So so sorry! It’s a terrifying time."
Chef Tom Kitchin added: "Sorry to hear this mate. Big love", while singer Jessie Ware added that she was "so sorry", to which Rimmer thanked her and said "tough day".
In Greens' original post, the pair wrote: "We can no longer make it work – our landlord has increased our rent by 35%, that together with increases in power, food and staff costs have made it impossible for us to continue, we'd like to thank every single customer, member of staff, supplier and our friends and neighbours for being part of the journey.
"Our sister restaurant in Sale is still open and we'd love to see you all there to help the Greens story continue. If you have a reservation with us we'll be in touch. Love thanks and keep terrifying the carnivores. Simon and Simon."
The popular dining spot became the first entirely veggie restaurant in the UK to be in the Good Food Guide and also received an AA Rosette in 1992, which it retained since. A second branch of Greens was opened on Stanley Square in Sale in the summer of 2022.
The venue, which will remain open, encompasses a 60-cover restaurant, alongside its own standalone bar and outdoor terrace – a first for the brand.
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