Didsbury says goodbye to a much loved restaurant after 35% rent hike from landlord

In a poignant announcement on social media, renowned chef Simon Rimmer expressed his heartbreak over the closure of the beloved vegetarian restaurant, Greens, located in Didsbury, Greater Manchester.

The establishment, which has been at the forefront of vegetarian dining in Manchester since it opened 1990, has been a cornerstone of the community.

Rimmer, best known for his role on Channel 4’s Sunday Brunch, cited a staggering 35% rent increase from landlords and escalating operational costs as the primary reasons for the restaurant’s closure.

Greens in Didsbury Bids Farewell After 33 Years

Greens in Didsbury, an incredible restaurant for over three decades, has played a pivotal role in bringing vegetarian cuisine into the mainstream in Manchester.

Chef Simon Rimmer, in partnership with Simon Connolly, first opened the doors to Greens on Lapwing Lane in 1990, proclaiming to “terrify carnivores since 1990.”

However, the duo recently announced the heartbreaking decision to close the restaurant, citing insurmountable challenges.

The Unfortunate Demise of Greens in Didsbury

In a video message shared on social media, Rimmer detailed the financial struggles that led to the closure.

The landlords imposed a rent increase of approximately 35%, coupled with escalating expenses for raw materials, energy, staffing, and general food costs, making the operation economically unviable.

This forced the team to make the painful decision to shutter Greens in Didsbury with immediate effect.

A Message of Gratitude Amidst Heartbreak

Expressing his sadness, Rimmer conveyed his appreciation to the dedicated staff, loyal customers, suppliers, neighbours, and friends who contributed to Greens’ legacy.

In the emotional video, he stated, “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, if not here. Lots of love.”

Support Pours In: Celebrities and Fans Mourn the Closure

The news of Greens’ closure reverberated across social media, with celebrities and fans expressing their sorrow.

Comedian Iain Stirling reminisced about the restaurant being one of his favourites during his time in Manchester, sending love to Rimmer.

Fellow comic Russell Kane pleaded for reassurance about the safety of the Sale branch, showcasing the profound impact Greens had on its patrons.

Masterchef Tony Rodd Offers Support

Masterchef 2015 finalist Tony Rodd, grappling with his own restaurant closure, expressed solidarity with Rimmer.

In a message of empathy, Rodd said, “It’s a horrific situation we all find ourselves in, through no fault of our own. Stay strong to you and the team.”

Closure Announcement of Greens Didsbury

The official announcement from Greens in Didsbury came in the form of a heartfelt post titled ‘Our hearts are broken.’

The closure was attributed to the inability to sustain operations due to a substantial rent hike and rising operational costs.

The team expressed gratitude to everyone who had been a part of Greens’ journey, extending an invitation to their sister restaurant in Sale to continue the Greens story.

Greens in Sale Remains Open for Business

Despite the somber news about Greens in Didsbury, patrons can take solace in the fact that the sister restaurant in Sale, opened in July 2022, will continue to serve its diverse and delectable menu.

The restaurant, located in Sale’s Stanley Square, offers a mix of small and large dishes, with options ranging from a vegetarian black pudding priced at £4.50 to the more indulgent falafel burger at £14.50.

You can check out their menu here