‘It's a heartbreaking day': Simon Rimmer's Greens closes after 33 years of trading

Greens Restaurant in Didsbury, Manchester, has closed after 33 years of trading.

Celebrity chef Simon Rimmer bought the restaurant, which had always served vegetarian food, in 1990 with business partner Simon Connolly.

Announcing the closure on X, Rimmer said: "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 our rent by on the region of 35%. The cost of raw materials the cost of heat, light and power, employing people and general food costs has meant that the business unfortunately has become unviable so with immediate effect we've unfortunately shut the door.

"It's a heartbreaking day. I'd like to thank every single member of staff that has worked for us over the years, every single customer that's come through the door, our amazing suppliers, our neighbours, our friends. Big love."

Rimmer told The Caterer in 2006 that Greens was "incredibly popular" and turned down 600 bookings every week.

In 2022, Rimmer and Connolly launched a second Greens site in Sale, which will remain open.

The announcement follows the closure of a number of independent restaurants including Tony Rodd's Copper & Ink in Blackheath and James Allcock's Pig and Whistle in Yorkshire.

Sacha Lord, night time economy adviser for Greater Manchester, tweeted: "Two high profile closures today. Both Simon Rimmer and Tony Rodd are at the top of their game and it's heartbreaking to see. Sadly, I believe this is the tip of the iceberg. Hospitality URGENTLY needs a reduction in VAT."