In a statement issued yesterday, owners Jobe Ferguson and chef Anthony Fielden blamed the “current climate” for making the restaurant “no longer a viable business”.
Rising costs were cited as a key factor, with the pair revealing that their monthly bill from energy company E-on had reached £8,000.
“Wage costs have rocketed, particularly after the last two budgets, food costs have soared and business rates continue to increase,” the statement reads.
“Last October the company borrowed £100k, which was personally guaranteed by two of the shareholders, in order to try and weather the storm, and two owners stopped being paid a salary, but unfortunately this wasn’t enough to save our restaurant.”
TNQ (The Northern Quarter) said it is committed to paying all staff what they are owed and is helping them find new jobs within the industry.
The statement also thanked partners, suppliers, the restaurant team and customers.
Apologising for no longer being able to accommodate guests, TNQ asked customers to “please bear with us” and assured that anyone with bookings, deposits or gift cards will be contacted.
“Our restaurant has been busy and often fully booked, but it’s not enough to be a sustainable business,” the statement concludes.
“We are so sorry, but this is goodbye from us at TNQ, one of the longest-established independent restaurants in our magnificent city.
“Thanks E-on and thanks Rachel Reeves.”
Founded in 2004 by Jobe Ferguson of the Liar’s Group of restaurants and bars, and later joined by chef Anthony Fielden, the Manchester venue served contemporary British cuisine.