Top-rated restaurant announces closure in heartbreaking statement

A Greater Manchester restaurant rated ‘the best’ in its area has confirmed it is closing. Proost in Urmston closed its doors with immediate effect yesterday.

The Crofts Bank Road location opened in 2019 and has held its position as Umston’s number one restaurant on TripAdvisor for several years. In a post shared on social media yesterday, the team at Proost said they made the announcement with “heavy hearts” and said it was “impossible” to keep the business afloat due to “the current economic climate and the illness from family”.

Husband and wife duo John and Carolyn Phillips opened the restaurant after hosting supper clubs and appearing on Channel 4’s Too Many Cooks. Chef John previously worked as a lawyer before opening the restaurant and in October 2019.

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The restaurant has previously been described as ‘the best restaurant in Trafford’ and offers a range of European-inspired dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options, as well as their much-loved Sunday roasts. Dishes include starters such as lemon garlic prawns and white pudding, as well as mains such as steak, lentils and chestnuts and seared cod loin.

Proost has earned rave reviews since opening, with TripAdvisor postings describing it as “outstanding”, “excellent” and “definitely worth a visit or two”. A recent review says: “You can definitely tell the difference between a kitchen that takes pride in its food and another that churns it out on a conveyor belt. If you want quality, then order Proost, you won’t regret it.”

In a post shared on Facebook, they wrote: “It is with extremely heavy hearts that we regret to announce that Proost will be closing its doors with immediate effect. Due to multiple factors, it became impossible for us to continue the business.

“We are incredibly grateful to all the staff whose hard work has enabled us to maintain Urmston’s prized position as TripAdvisor’s number one restaurant for over 4 years.

“We also want to thank all our customers for being a part of our journey. We are forever grateful for the friendships and memories we have made together and greatly appreciate your support.”

The post attracted hundreds of comments with many followers of the restaurant expressing their sadness at the news. One wrote: “So sorry to hear this. Your food and service have always been outstanding. Good luck for the future.”

Another wrote: Oh no. I am devastated. We absolutely love this place. The food is consistently amazing and all the staff are so nice.

“I know the decision will not be taken lightly. I’m happy for you and wish you all the best.”

Others spoke of the high quality of the food and service, with one saying Proost hosts some of the “best” tapas and steaks and describing the hospitality as “exceptional”.

“Sad to hear this,” wrote another. Adding: “We have always had beautiful meals and excellent service in Proost. I hope it’s not the last time we see you. Good luck for the future.”

And some wrote about the impact it would have on the streets and the local community, saying it was a “massive blow” to Urmston. Echoing this, another added: “No! That’s a loss for the area. I’ve always had a fabulous meal there, and great service.”

Later in the day, owners Proost thanked their followers for their “wonderful supportive comments” saying: “it really means the world to us.” However, they further explained the reasons for the sudden closure/

“Unfortunately, due to the current economic climate and illness in the family, it is simply unbearable for us to continue at this time, but hopefully better times will come in the future that can allow us to bring something back to the community.” , They. he wrote in the comments below the original post.

“We want to assure you that we are actively working on the best way to address and resolve any outstanding gift card issues. Our aim is to find a fair and satisfactory solution for all our valued customers. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time and will provide more detailed information as soon as possible.”

Earlier this month, another Urmston business also announced it would be closing its doors, with the owners citing challenges including the pandemic and “surge” prices on produce as some of the reasons behind the closure. The Cheese Court in Urmston has announced it will close shop at the end of May after facing its “fair share of challenges” over the past five years.