A popular Manchester restaurant beloved for its plant-based take on junk food has announced it is closing. Wholesome Junkies, a vegan eatery located under an archway near Victoria Train Station, has closed with immediate effect.
Founder Chelsea Campbell announced the news on Instagram last night, saying it was “one of the hardest posts” she’s “ever had to write”. She thanked her customers for their continued support and explained that despite being busy, the restaurant’s costs had “gotten through the roof” and she “couldn’t afford to pay the debt”.
The restaurant started out as a stall in Arndale Market, selling everything from vegan salt and pepper prawns to stack burgers and plant-based chicken and waffles. After a Kickstarter campaign, Chelsea moved to its current location and also appeared on the BBC’s My Million Pound Menu, pitching her plant-based ideals to investors.
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Last month, the business’ owner warned they were “fighting hard” to keep their doors open, but said the “waves of rising costs” were hitting them hard. Despite having to increase menu prices earlier, they adapted again, removing some dishes and adding more affordable options.
The full statement from Chelsea and the Wholesome Junkies team last night reads: “This is one of the hardest messages I have ever had to write. I am absolutely devastated.
“We have made the incredibly difficult decision to close our restaurant effective immediately.
“Despite being fully booked every weekend, our costs have skyrocketed and we can no longer service the debt. The numbers are just not adding up, it’s not a joke and it’s destroying the hospitality industry. I continue to hope for change in the economy and in our industry, especially for small, independent businesses like ours.
“About 1.5 years ago I got completely burned out and it took me a long time to recover. I learned to be kind to myself and the people around me. Luckily my passion for cooking and Wholesome Junkies still burns.
“Running Wholesome Junkies as a solo female has been a journey of challenges and triumphs over the past 7 years. It is my passion, my dream, and it has been made possible by the most amazing team by my side who have put up with my quirky ADHD habits. Their dedication, compassion, laughter and support have made these two years on Mirabel St and all the adventures before it unforgettable. We have built more than just a business; we have built a family.”
In the post, Chelsea assured customers that while the restaurant would be closing, the brand would continue. She added: “We are going back to our roots with events, weddings, pop-ups and festivals.
“This summer is jam-packed and I’m lucky enough to have most of our amazing staff joining me on this new adventure. We’re looking for a new kitchen residency or pop-up spot. If you want award-winning burgers delivered to your door, DM us!
“Keep an eye on our socials for updates on where we’ll be popping up next, so you can still get your Wholesome Junkies fix. And if you want to stay in the know, join our email subscription, which you can sign up for on our website.
“To our wonderful customers who have all become our friends over the years, thank you. Your support has kept us alive and I am eternally grateful. Please be kind and patient, this is still very raw and I am still trying to process everything.”
The post generated hundreds of comments from supporters and other local businesses of the brand, with many wishing Chelsea the best of luck in the next phase, while others called it ‘terrible’ and ‘the worst news ever’.
One person commented: “I’m so sad! One of the best vegan restaurants I’ve ever been to. Absolutely the best burgers, I was looking forward to the Christmas menu too. Hope to see you at a popup soon!”
Another added: “So sorry to hear! Absolutely amazing food and amazing lady, best of luck in the future, these are tough times but you’ve been so amazing.”
A third wrote: “This is awful. Your food is amazing and I hope to have it again in the future. From my first experience of eating at home during lockdown, to both Warrington and Manchester! Good luck in the future!”
The team behind Manchester alcohol-free bar Love From added: “What a difficult decision to make, but you have to do what’s right for you and the business. We’ll miss your burgers! Lots of love and be kind to yourself.”