An Edinburgh restaurant has confirmed they will be closing for good after 18 years in the business.
L'escargot Bleu announced this week that one of their popular eateries, L'escargot Blanc, will not be reopening after a series of issues following lockdown.
A Queensferry Street staple, the French restaurant first opened nearly 20 years ago, with the team adapting the site over the years and even winning 'best restaurant experience' in 2020.
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However, speaking in an announcement this week, owner Fred explained that the pandemic had caused "all sorts of issues" for the restaurant.
Remaining closed since lockdown, L'escargot Blanc will now shut for good, with staff focussing on the other eateries across the capital.
Speaking about the 'painful decision', they said: "L’escargot blanc hosted a real mix of characters and was a thriving, vibrant place. We made it all the way to the Scottish Thistle Awards in March 2020, winning “best restaurant experience” – just a few days before lockdown forced us to close.
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"Those of you that have been following my newsletters will know how the story ends. The first lockdown led to more lockdowns with all sorts of issues as a result, meaning we never managed to get the door open again.
"So many people have enquired about l’escargot blanc. So, in answer to all those who asked, sadly l’escargot blanc will not open again under mine and Betty’s management. A painful decision, but the time has come to pass it on to someone else.
"I am quite happy, and relieved in a way. The feeling of failure will pass. It’s now time to let go and concentrate on other things. 17 Queensferry Street will always be l’escargot blanc for me, and I shall miss it. Now l’escargot bleu and its garden will have my full attention."
