A well-known Wigan town centre restaurant has announced it is to close its doors after almost 16 years, with its owners saying they have been left “heartbroken” by the decision.
Red Door Bistro, which is tucked away on College Avenue off Library Street, has revealed that it will be closing after nearly 16 years serving customers in the town.
In an emotional statement, owners Jayne and Aimee said the restaurant had become far more than simply a place to eat, having played host to countless birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, baby showers and even marriage proposals over the years.
They said: “After nearly 16 wonderful years, Red Door Bistro will be closing its doors. This is one of the hardest announcements we have ever made. For almost 16 years, Red Door Bistro has been so much more than just a restaurant.
“We have welcomed thousands of customers, celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, baby showers, and who could forget the wedding proposals!”
The owners reflected on the many friendships which have grown out of the business, as well as the memorable moments and occasional mishaps behind the scenes.
They added: “Along the way, there have been so many laughs, unforgettable moments and, yes, plenty of mishaps too, from kitchen disasters and last-minute scrambles to those moments where everything seemed to go wrong but somehow turned into the best stories.
“It’s those memories, the laughter shared behind the scenes and out on the floor, that I will treasure forever.”
Jayne and Aimee also paid tribute to the past and present members of the Red Door Bistro team, describing staff as the “heart and soul” of the restaurant.
They said: “Your dedication, humour, resilience and friendship have carried us through the busiest nights and the toughest days.
“We have been more than a team; we have been a little family.”
Explaining the decision to close, the statement said factors outside the owners’ control had badly affected trade.
It said: “Sadly, outside influences beyond our control have had a devastating effect on our trade and have ultimately led us to make this heartbreaking decision.
“Despite doing everything possible to keep going, I have now been left with no choice but to close. This is not how we ever imagined our story ending. Myself and Aimee are absolutely heartbroken, devastated really.”
The statement did not give further details about those outside influences. However, in a pointed addition to the original announcement, the owners sarcastically thanked Wigan Council, the Business Hub, their landlords and the Labour Government, adding: “Well done. You’re all a credit to the town!”
No specific allegations or details about the role of those organisations were included in the statement.
Red Door Bistro’s footfall had reduced significantly though over the past year and a half due to work being done to convert the Victoria Building on King Street, which meant access from King Street was blocked. No work has been done on the Victoria Bulding since October last year.
The owners finished by thanking the thousands of customers who have supported Red Door Bistro during its time in Wigan.
They said: “To every customer who has eaten with us, supported us, recommended us and returned time and time again – thank you from the bottom of our hearts.
“Your friendship and support have meant more than you will ever know.
“Thank you for nearly 16 unforgettable years, for the laughter, the chaos, the friendships, and for all the wonderful memories.
“With love and gratitude,
“Jayne and Aimee, and of course the Red Door Bistro team.”
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