So, like, this year has been a total rollercoaster for restaurants in Plymouth, you know? The numbers are in and it turns out that a whopping 569 restaurant businesses went bust in just the first three months of the year. That’s a 55% increase, man! And get this, across the whole UK, an average of 5.6 restaurant businesses were going bust every day. It’s like, whoa, what’s going on?
So, what’s causing all this chaos, you ask? Well, it seems like rising interest rates, banks getting tough on unpaid loans, and people not spending as much are all to blame. Even famous chef Tom Kerridge and 200 other big shots in the hospitality world are begging for help. They’re telling Chancellor Jeremy Hunt to back off on raising business rates or else there’s gonna be even more closures.
And let me tell you, Plymouth has been hit hard. Some of the city’s most loved food spots have had to shut their doors. Check it out, here are a dozen food joints that have closed so far this year:
1. Lorenzos
This was the go-to spot for celebs like Pixie Lott and Alexandra Burke, but it had to close in November because of crazy high bills and rent. But hey, there’s hope – a new bar and restaurant is coming soon!
2. Prime Cafe Bar
This place was known for its awesome dishes, but it had to close in October because it was losing money. It’s a real shame, man.
3. Hearth Pizza
This cool pizza joint, which brought a taste of America’s Motor City to Plymouth, had to shut down in October because of the cost of living. It’s a bummer, dude.
4. Theatre Royal Plymouth’s restaurant
The restaurant at the Theatre Royal Plymouth won’t be reopening because it just wasn’t making any money. But don’t worry, they’ve got plans for something new!
5. New Oriental Tea Room
This Malaysian gem in Stonehouse closed in August, leaving fans of international cuisine feeling pretty bummed.
6. Little Kitchen
This breakfast and brunch spot had to close in July because of high costs. It’s a real loss for the community.
7. The Club House
This trendy eatery at Royal William Yard had to close in July, leaving fans of hanging kebabs and cocktails in the lurch.
8. Seed Sip
This vegan spot at Bretonside had to close in April after just six months of trading. Rising costs and a drop in trade made it impossible to keep going.
9. Prezzo
The Plymouth branch of this Italian chain had to close in April, along with 46 other restaurants. It’s a tough time for the hospitality industry.
10. Perillas
This fish and chip shop closed suddenly in March after less than two years in business. It’s a shame to see it go.
11. Samphire Brasserie
Plymouth’s first vegan restaurant had to close without explanation after 10 years of serving meat-free dishes. It’s a real loss for the city.
12. Cafe Curva
This popular restaurant in Drake Circus Shopping Centre closed after the operator decided not to renew the lease. It’s a real shame, man.
It’s a tough time for restaurants, but let’s hope things start looking up soon. We could all use a good meal out, right?
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