A host of favourite shops, restaurants, cafes and takeaways in the centre of Edinburgh and other parts of the city have reluctantly taken the decision to shut.
Many blame the cost of living crisis, the changes in the pattern of living after Covid or a combination of economic factors. But there are also other reasons – retirement, ill health or the end of a lease – behind some of the closures.
Changes are inevitable on the business scene, but it is always sad to see favourite places close their doors for the last time. Here are some of the shops and eateries which have shut in Edinburgh so far this year.
. Superico restaurant, Hanover Street
Superico restaurant, at 83 Hanover Street, announced in January that, due to rising costs, it would no longer be able to stay open. A statement on social media said: “This is not something that we ever wished to post, but unfortunately our Superico restaurant doors will not be re-opening for 2023. Coming out of Covid with the ability to welcome everyone back to the restaurant has been truly wonderful, however times are just a little too tough now with costs rising." Photo: Superico
. Paperchase, George Street
Paperchase in George Street launched a massive closing down sale in February after the stationery chain fell into administration. More than 100 Paperchase stores across the UK closed while Tesco bought the Paperchase brand but not its high street shops. Photo: Submitted
. Elephants & Bagels, Nicolson Square
Elephants & Bagels announced in February it was closing after around 25 years in the Capital. The cafe, at the corner of Nicolson Square, was a huge favourite with students at nearby Edinburgh University as well as Fringe-goers. The owners gave no reason for the closure, but thanked people for their custom over the years. Photo: Unknown
. Printing Press Bar, George Street
The Printing Press Bar & Kitchen, which was part of The George InterContinental hotel in George Street, closed its doors for good in March, with the hotel saying it was in talks about a new project at the venue. Photo: Google
5. Fabio's, Corstorphine
Fabio’s, a family-run Italian restaurant, closed permanently at the end of March after serving customers in Corstorphine for more than 23 years. The restaurant, in Glasgow Road, said in a statement the decision to close had not been taken lightly. "All the friendships forged over the years have become an extension of Fabio’s and made it feel like one big huge Italian family so it is with heavy hearts that we make this announcement. However, it was time and we have so many amazing memories to take with us and help us lighten the heavy hearts." Photo: Unknown
6. Blue Bear, Brandon Terrace
The popular Blue Bear cafe in Brandon Terrace at Canonmills closed its doors for good at the end of February due economic pressures. The cafe had been open for over six and a half years. In a statement, the owners said it had been a “very difficult decision to make but due to the economic challenges of the past few years, it is no longer sustainable to keep the Blue Bear going.” They also thanked customers and staff over the years, adding “we are grateful for all your hard work and commitment.” Photo: Google
7. Garden Bistro, Saughton
The Garden Bistro, in Saughton Park Walled Gardens, was a "godsend" for locals during the pandemic, allowing family and friends to get together in a safe, socially-distanced environment. But in February the bistro told customers it was closing, citing factors including the cost of living crisis, the aftermath of Covid and a massive increase in costs. ““We tried everything we possibly could to keep the business trading but ultimately, we have no choice. We thank all of our hard working staff and loyal customers over the past three years." Photo: Unknown
8. The Baked Potato Shop, Cockburn Street
The Baked Potato Shop was a favourite takeaway in Edinburgh's Cockburn Street for more than 30 years, but shut for good in April, a casualty of the cost of living crisis. It had served up baked potatoes, soups and salads to locals, tourists and city centre workers alike. In a Facebook post, the owners said: “It is with a heavy heart that today we announce the permanent retirement of The Baked Potato Shop. It has been an absolute honour to carry on the shop’s good name for so many years but unfortunately with the cost of living as it is, it is no longer possible for us to continue." Photo: Google