A BELOVED Indian takeaway has been forced to shut after 27 years as owners apologise to loyal customers for the “suddenness.”
Locals gutted are the unexpected closure and have expressed how much they’ll miss the “incredible” business.
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Family-run Bombay Spice in Leith, Edinburgh, revealed it would no longer be serving any more food after nearly three decades.
In a shock announcement on Facebook, the owners shared a heartfelt message for Leith locals on Tuesday.
It read: “After 27 wonderful years, we regret to announce that we will be closing permanently.
“However, we are excited to share that a new team will be taking over soon.
“Thank you for your incredible support throughout the years.”
The team also shared a post apologising for the unexpected closure, saying: “We will be temporarily closed until further notice.
“Sorry about the suddenness.”
Bombay Spice offered a range of authentic Indian plates including Minced Biryani, Chicken Tikka, Butter Chicken and a plethora of delicious naan breads.
It also offered a Bring Your Own Booze offer during festive periods where customers could bring in their own alcohol with corkage priced at just £1 per glass.
Devastated customers took to social media to express their dismay over the abrupt closure.
One upset diner said: “Thanks for many lovely, tasty meals and your bouncy smiles.
“We will be bereft.
Another customer was unwilling to see the team go, responding: “No!!!!! I wish you luck and also I hope the new staff are as wonderful as you guys.”
A review stood as a testament to the takeaway, which was rated four stars on Google.
It said: “A local gem! The lady who served was incredible.
“So lovely, Bubbly and helpful! The food was incredible.”
Bombay Spice isn’t the only beloved restaurant announcing a shock closure this month.
Istanbul Kebab, based on High Street in Irvine, revealed the heartbreaking news on Facebook, confirming that Sunday, March 2, would be their last day of trading.
Customers rushed to share their sadness over the closure, with many praising the restaurant not just for its food but for its generosity.
One heartbroken customer wrote: “So sad to see you close – your food is delicious, and you are so kind and do a lot for the community. I was so touched when you opened for the homeless on Christmas Day.”
Despite the sad news, customers are hoping Istanbul Kebab will be able to reopen at a new location in the future.
Hundreds of venues have been hit by an array of financial burdens in the past few years.
Aside from the pandemic, and looming tax spikes, the cost of living crisis has led to fewer Brits splashing the cash.
Without as much disposable income, fewer customers pour money into hospitality making it difficult to sustain.
What is happening to the hospitality industry?
By Laura McGuire, consumer reporter
