DINERS are up in arms after a family-run restaurant housed in an historic church has pulled down the shutters.
The Slanj in the Scottish village of Tarbet pulled the plug on operations after years of feeding famished locals.
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The owners admitted they were “very sad” to be permanently closing.
They added that the converted church would be re-opening “shortly” with new management at the helm.
The eatery specialised in high-quality traditional Scottish cuisine with fresh local ingredients.
Diners were treated to sweeping views of the Scottish Highlands as they enjoyed their meals.
“We are very sad to announce that The Slanj has officially closed,” they wrote.
“The building has now sold and a new business will be taking over shortly and bringing you something new.
“James and I are so thankful to our staff, friends, family and customers that helped us give it a try!”
Locals flocked to express their disappointment over the abrupt closure.
One said: “Absolutely gutted.
“Stayed over many times over the last six years and enjoyed every stopover.”
Hospitality industry struggles
Many food and drink businesses have faced significant challenges recently, as the rising cost of living has led to a decline in dining out.
After struggling to recover from the impact of the pandemic, many establishments were then hit with soaring energy bills and mounting inflationary pressures.
This has forced several well-known chains to shut locations, with big brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny’s among those affected.
Craig Rachel, director at financial advisory firm AlixPartners, outlined the key factors that have driven businesses to close sites last year, in 2024.
He said: “Restaurants have seen the accumulation of external pressures in 2024, including rising utility costs, food prices and labour costs.
“Although some of these factors have stabilised over recent months, the overall impact is significant and will be exacerbated again in 2025 following the budget announcements, and this has all affected profitability.
“Some restaurant groups have been able to mitigate this to a certain extent through operational efficiencies and pricing, but consumer spending in the sector is under pressure meaning price measures are often unable to fully bridge the gap.”
What is happening to the hospitality industry?
By Laura McGuire, consumer reporter
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