Top TV chef’s restaurant chain closes last branch after 33 years in business as locals sob ‘where will we go now?’

THE LAST branch of a top TV chef’s restaurant chain will close after 33 years in business and locals are devastated.

On September 17, TV star Simon Rimmer’s last remaining Greens restaurant announced its shocking closure.

The restaurant took to Facebook to release a heartbreaking statement: “We’ve done everything possible to make this work, but it is now clear the business is untenable.”

“We’d like to thank everyone, team members and guests, who have been on the Greens journey with us.”

Even worse, it will close with “immediate effect”.

Greens, in Sale, Manchester has been a welcoming place for vegans and vegetarians alike and it is safe to say the closure has come as a devastating shock.

The Facebook post has since racked up hundreds of likes, along with comments from shattered hearts.

One person expressed their feelings: “So sad to read this, one of our Sale favourites.”

“No. End of an era. Loved both restaurants. So sad,” said another.

A third person commented: “Oh god, this is so sad, my absolute favourite restaurant of all time.”

“Oh no, that’s very sad. We have loved 12yrs of eating at Greens. Definitely the end of an era,” said a fourth.

“So sorry to hear this, great food and atmosphere. It will leave a big hole in the local Sale scene,” commented a fifth person.

Just two years ago Simon Rimmer and his business partner, actor, Simon Connelly launched the beloved restaurant.

However, Greens Sale disclosed that the board of directors and shareholders reached a decision to permanently close its doors.

Acclaimed TV chef Simon is yet to release a statement.

Only a week ago customers were leaving shining five-star Google reviews for the restaurant, with one saying: “Excellent food and great choices. I was actually spoilt for choice.

“Friendly service and fabulous atmosphere will definitely visit again,” they added.

Another person stated: “Travelled over from Yorkshire. Well worth the effort!

“Great restaurant in an interesting area. We went for the small plates and every plate was delicious.

“Staff were friendly and explained the menu. We shouldn’t have attempted the puddings, but like the trip they were well worth the effort! It’s all about the flavours!

“Excellent value too with the 25% off Tues- Thurs January deal.
We will be back!”

Sadly, the news comes after the original Greens in Didsbury, Manchester drew its curtains for good in January after 33 years of trading.

At the time of the closure, Simon posted an emotional message saying: “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.”

Alas, Greens Sale closed just eight months later.

Unlike the Didsbury site, Greens Sale offered a large bar, outdoor seating, plus a roof terrace.

However, their menus were very similar.

When Greens Didsbury closed, Simon told fans that due to increases in rent and energy bills, there would be no future for the restaurant.

He stated in a video: “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,” said the chef at the time.

He also thanked the staff who worked there along with suppliers, customers, neighbours and friends, and noted that this was a “heartbreaking day”.