The rooftop restaurant was launched in 2022 by the team behind Chester restaurant Covino, located atop Blackfriars House overlooking the River Irwell.
The wine-focused restaurant, which takes its name from the French word for ‘climate’, offered a menu of ‘Parisian ex-pat food’ cooked by Luke Richardson, whose CV includes some of the best modern bistros in Paris.
Laidler said he was heartbroken to announce the closure.
“Sadly, we are yet another casualty of the times we’re living in. The reasons for closure will echo those of many of our peers. Ultimately, a stagnant economy and the persistent cost of living crisis, combined with rampant food inflation and the ever-increasing tax burden for small businesses, have created the perfect storm for hospitality — an industry so reliant on high staff numbers and costly, well-positioned locations, both of which have received significant tax increases over the last two budgets.”
Laidler added that since opening in December 2022, wages have increased by 33%, alongside more recent rises in employers’ National Insurance contributions.
Business rates have also risen sharply, from £12,000 per annum in 2023/24 to £38,000 per annum today.
“All these increases, alongside reduced footfall, are spelling disaster for so many,” he continues.
“Whilst I wanted to highlight these reasons for closure in the naive hope the Government will start to listen before it’s too late for others.”
Laidler added that he wanted to acknowledge the fantastic work of his team over the last three and a half years.
“The closure does not do justice to their efforts and dedication. I’d also like to extend a huge debt of gratitude to our guests for their support, enabling us to build a nationally recognised wine list — our raison d’être.”