Medlock Canteen in Manchester closes ‘with heavy hearts’

Medlock Canteen in Manchester’s Deansgate has closed after 18 months of trading due to the challenges posed by the current economic climate.

The restaurant was launched as a crossover between Parisian bistros and American diners by co-owners Chris Edwards, Sam Grainger and Owain Williams in March last year.

It was praised by Jay Rayner, then food critic of The Observer, for its “thoroughly humane embrace” and its set of “appealing, familiar dishes that are the best versions of themselves”.

In a message on Instagram, the team behind the Parisian-American bistro-diner said: “With heavy hearts, we’re announcing the closure of Medlock Canteen. When we opened our doors 18 months ago, our dream was simple: to build a neighbourhood spot where everyone felt welcome, serving proper good food you know, love and can’t wait to eat.

“But the current climate has made that dream a tough one to sustain. Rising costs, increased taxes and tighter spending have created challenges we’ve fought hard to overcome, but sadly they’re ones we just can’t compete with.”

The restaurant confirmed its staff have been “looked after with payroll up to date” and relocated to roles elsewhere in its portfolio of venues, including Madre and Belzan in Liverpool, as well as Winsome, which Williams launched with chef Shaun Moffat this spring.  

Customers who have made bookings at Medlock Canteen will be offered a booking on the same date at its sister restaurants instead, “as an apology”, the group said.

The team added: “To everyone who dined, left us a rave review, shared a laugh, or came back for seconds: thank you. You made this little place feel truly special.”