'I’m completely heartbroken': Much-loved Manchester restaurant closes weeks after 'fighting' to stay open

A popular Manchester restaurant loved for its plant-based takes on junk food has announced its closure. Wholesome Junkies, a vegan dining spot which is tucked under an archway near to Victoria Train Station, has closed with immediate effect.

Founder Chelsea Campbell announced the news on Instagram last night, sharing that it was 'one of the hardest messages' she had 'ever had to write'. Thanking customers for their ongoing support, she explained that despite being busy, the restaurant's costs had 'skyrocketed' and they couldn't 'keep up with the debt'.

The restaurant first started out as a stall at Arndale Market, selling everything from vegan salt and pepper prawns to stack burgers and plant-based chicken and waffles. Moving to its current site following a Kickstarter campaign, Chelsea also appeared on BBC's My Million Pound Menu where she pitched her plant-based ideals to investors.

READ MORE: 'Completely out of our control': Popular Greater Manchester bakery announces closure, but tells customers 'fear not'

Last month, the business owner warned that they we're 'fighting hard' to keep their doors open, but said the 'waves of rising costs' were hitting them hard. Despite having to previously raise menu costs, they adapted once more by cutting some dishes and adding more affordable options.

The full statement from Chelsea and the team at Wholesome Junkies from last night reads: "This is one of the hardest messages I’ve ever had to write. I’m completely heartbroken .

"We’ve made the incredibly tough decision to close our restaurant with immediate effect.

"Despite being packed every weekend, our costs have skyrocketed, and we can’t keep up with the debt. The figures just don’t add up, it’s no joke and it’s devastating