Another York business has succumbed to the economic chaos wrought by Covid-19.
City restaurant Gusto is to close permanently, it has been announced.
The Little Stonegate Italian is one of four that the chain has decided to shut, in order to keep the other 14 viable.
In a statement, the company said: “It’s with a heavy heart that we announce the permanent closure of our restaurants in Lytham, Mere Green, Leamington Spa and York.
“Covid-19 has had a significant impact on our business, like many in the industry, and we’ve had to make the incredibly tough decision to close four of our restaurants in order to protect the future of Gusto.”
The Italian restaurant opened in July 2017 in part of the former Mulberry Hall shop.
It was transformed by a £1 million investment, creating 60 jobs. The 4,000 sq ft venue included a separate bar and space for 120 diners.
Group sold on
Hospitality group Living Ventures established the Gusto brand before it was spun off into a separate management buy-out.
One fan, Harry Simpson, said on Facebook: “Another York restaurant gone and no doubt a lovely building left empty, Gusto has now permanently closed.
“One of the best restaurants in York lost to this bloody virus. Hope the staff manage to find work ASAP although unlikely in the hospitality business.”
The company statement went on: “We can’t thank you enough for being members of our Gusto family, for choosing us to celebrate birthdays, graduations, anniversaries and so many other special occasions with us, which we hold dear to our hearts.
“Though your local Gusto is closing, we have 14 more restaurants across the country and hope to see your friendly and familiar faces in one of our other venues in the future.”