A North East restaurateur has told how he has been forced to close his Gateshead venture for good after rising bills and other costs took their toll on the business.
River Beat has welcomed customers for the last eight years, serving up Asian tapas with a twist to regulars and tourists, while also winning a number of awards. Now, however, owner and head chef Andrew Drape, who invested more than £50,000 into transforming Pipewellgate House into River Beat, has announced the closure of the restaurant.
Mr Drape made the closure announcement on social media channels, saying: “It comes with great sadness as well as pride with our journey for the last eight years, but with energy bills and food hikes; the no parking around every inch of our building. We hope everyone who dined/party and laughed with us always remember us. I’d also like to thank all the staff who were part of the adventure.”
