We’re only two months into 2024 and it’s already shaping up to be a tough year for Greater Manchester’s hospitality industry.
There have been several big losses this year. Some had been part of the Manchester food and drink scene for decades, such as Simon Rimmer’s Greens in Didsbury, while others barely had the chance to get started, like Rigatoni’s in Sale, which closed after just 26 days.
It’s not just restaurants that are suffering the consequences of the cost of living crisis and rising energy costs. Sonata Piano Bar closed after an 18-month run, as did Canvas at Circle Square.
Manchester’s night time economy advisor Sacha Lord, the businessman behind Warehouse Project and Parklife, is leading the charge in the region’s fight to save the hospitality industry. He has been campaigning for the government to reduce VAT rates for the sector, from 20% to 12.5%, the rate it was reduced to during the pandemic.
Here are some of the restaurants, bars and venues we’ve had to say goodbye to in 2024 already.
5. Lily's Deli, Ancoats
Lily's Deli Ancoats closed on 21 January after just 12 months. Lily's still has a deli in Chorlton and a restaurant in Ashton-Under-Lyne. | Google Maps
6. Bianco Pizza and Coffee
Bianco in Sale closed on 21 January after a decade. | Google Maps
7. Liquid and Envy
Liquid and Envy, Oldham's last-standing nightclub, closed down on 2 February. | Google Maps
8. Rigatoni's, Sale
Rigatoni's in Sale closed on 5 February after just 26 days. The restaurant had recently rebranded, having been formerly known as Sud, and before that Sugo. The pasta restaurant still has locations in Altrincham, Ancoats and Exhibition in the city centre. Credit: Rigatoni's | Rigatoni's