A popular Manchester restaurant that is popular for its plant-based junk food has announced its closure. Wholesome Junkies, the vegan restaurant tucked under an arch near 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’s “ever had to write.” She thanked customers for their continued support and explained that even though the restaurant was busy, the restaurant’s costs had “skyrocketed” and they couldn’t “keep up with the debt”.
The restaurant first started as a stall at Arndale Market, selling everything from vegan salt and pepper prawns to burgers and plant-based chicken and waffles. Chelsea moved on to her current site after a Kickstarter campaign and also appeared on the BBC’s My Million Pound Menu where she pitched 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 previously having to raise the cost of the menu, they have adapted again by cutting some dishes and adding more affordable options.
The full statement from Chelsea and the team at Wholesome Junkies from last night read: “This is one of the hardest messages I’ve ever had to write. I’m absolutely heartbroken.”
“We have made the incredibly difficult decision to close our restaurant effective immediately.
“Despite being packed every weekend, our costs have skyrocketed and we can’t keep up with debt. The numbers just don’t add up, it’s no joke and it’s devastating the hospitality industry. I’m holding out hope for change in the economy and in our industry, especially for small, independent businesses, like ours.
“About 1.5 years ago I went through a complete burnout and it took me a long time to recover. I learned to be kind to myself and those around me. Fortunately, my passion for cooking and Wholesome Junkies is still shining bright. .
“Running Wholesome Junkies as a solo woman has been a journey full of challenges and triumphs for the past 7 years. It’s my passion, my dream, and made possible by the most amazing team by my side who put up with my unpredictability through their dedication, compassion, laughter and support made these two years on Mirabel Street and all the previous adventures unforgettable.
In a post, Chelsea assured customers that while the restaurant is closing, the brand will continue. She added: “We’re going back to our roots with events, weddings, pop-ups and festivals.
“It’s a busy summer and I’m lucky to have most of our incredible staff joining me on this new adventure. We’re looking for a new kitchen residency or pop-up location. If you want some award-winning burgers at your place, hit our DMs!”
“Follow our social media for updates on where we’ll be popping up next so you can still get your healthy junkie fix. And if you want to stay in the loop, join our email subscription, which you can sign up for on our website page.
“Thank you to our wonderful customers who have all become our friends over the years. Your support has kept us alive and I am forever grateful. Please be kind and patient, it’s still very raw and I’m still trying to process everything.”
The post attracted hundreds of comments from the brand’s supporters and other local businesses, with many wishing Chelsea the best of luck for the next stage, while others lamented the “gutting” and “worst news ever”.
One person commented: “So sad! One of the best vegan restaurants I’ve been to. Definitely the best burgers, I was looking forward to the Christmas menu too. Hope to see you at the pop-up soon!”
Another added: “So sorry to hear that! Absolutely amazing food and amazing lady good luck for the future times are so hard but you guys have been so amazing.”
A third wrote: “This is gutting. Your food is delicious and I hope to be able to eat it again in the future. From my first experience making it at home during lockdown to Warrington and Manchester too! Good luck in the future!”
The team behind Manchester soft bar Love From added: “It’s a tough decision but you have to do what’s right for you and the business. We’ll miss your burgers! Send lots of love and be kind to each other.”