A popular family-owned restaurant in Ayrshire is to close down.
Ayrshire Live can reveal that the Minishant Restaurant, in Minishant’s Main Road, will shut its doors for “the foreseeable future.”
A statement from the owners, the Beattie family, said on social media: “As a family we have made the difficult decision to close The Minishant for the foreseeable future.
“We would like to say thank you to all of our customers, staff and suppliers who have helped us over the last 12 years- we couldn’t have done it without you!
“There have been good and bad times during our time here, but we certainly have made memories to last a lifetime!
“The past couple of years have been extremely difficult for everyone and hospitality has become an increasingly stressful industry to work in, which has taken its toll. This is why we have decided to take some time out for now.”
The statement adds: “Thank you for all of your support. Love from The Beattie family and all at The Minishant.”
Back in 2016, The Minishant Restaurant flew the flag for the town’s eateries as they were nominated for the prestigious ‘Restaurant of the Year’ category at the Food Awards Scotland.
The Minishant was shortlisted to represent the South West and were hailed at the glittering awards for their high standards of service and food.
At the time, head chef and owner, Ryan Beattie said they were “absolutely overjoyed” to be shortlisted for the category, adding: “We’ve come from humble beginnings since my family bought over the property.”
News of the closure has been met with sadness on social media.
Claire Oldfield said: "Absolutely gutted to hear this. A lovely family running an amazing restaurant with top class food."
Rebecca Mccluskie said: "I am heartbroken!! Such a gem of a place that we have enjoyed for such a long time."
And Richard Wilson added: "Gutted to read this.. excellent place, excellent team and an asset to Ayrshire, Good luck with the next chapter."
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