A "truly gutted" Wirral restaurant has announced its closure with a "heavy heart".
Monte Carlo, based in Hoylake, was a popular bar and grill that offered tapas and large plates, as well as desserts, cocktails, and more. The picturesque venue was complete with a free private event space upstairs, as well as an outdoor terrace kitted out with heaters to allow alfresco dining during even the colder months.
Monte Carlo, which won a TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice award this year - amassed loyal customers thanks to its Mediterranean cuisine and sumptuous Sunday roasts. This week, it confirmed it is now permanently closed.
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The ongoing cost of living crisis, which has seen the cost of produce and energy bills soar, continues to impact the hospitality industry. In some instances, it's led to the permanent closure of shops, businesses, restaurants and more.
Taking to Instagram with an "important message", the restaurant posted an image of a hanging closed sign and penned: "It is with a heavy heart that we announce that Monte Carlo is permanently closed
"We would like to thank each and everyone of our staff members and customers for their loyal support over the years. But sadly, given the times, we have had to make the decision to close our doors. Once again a huge thank you to all of you".
Former diners - and those who had booked to eat there over the Christmas period - took to the comments section to share their thoughts. Carol said: "So sorry to see this, good luck for the future".
One fan said: "Ah this is so sad. Sorry to hear that", while a third commented: "It's a very very hard decision after all the hard work a business takes but better hopefully in the long run for you".
Claire said: "Thank you for the food and the friendship over the past years. Sorry to see you go. Fly safe and see you all again". Fay said: "So sad to see and hear this news".
Another fan added: "Oh nooooo! This is such sad news", to which Monte Carlo replied: "we are all truly gutted".
Other customers enquired about getting their Christmas deposits back. Monte Carlo was based at 22-24 Market Street, Hoylake, Wirral, CH47 2AE.
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