The past few years have proved difficult for the hospitality sector as a combination of cost of living pressures, the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and the economic effects of Brexit have pushed many businesses to breaking point.
Small, independent businesses and eateries have been hit particularly hard – with many forced to close for good. We’ve put together a list of some businesses which are sorely missed since they were forced – or chose – to shut up shop.
Here are 16 shops, restaurants and pubs we said goodbye to in Portsmouth in 2023:
5. Feed Cafe, 7 The Hard, Portsmouth
Feed Cafe, 7 The Hard, Portsmouth, suddenly closed down overnight in April with no word of warning that they would not be reopening from the previous shift. Picture: Sam Stephenson. Photo: Sam Stephenson
6. Chantelle Originals in Elm Grove, Southsea
Chantelle Originals in Elm Grove, Southsea. Chantelle Originals on Elm Grove, Southsea, closed at the beginning of June after its owner Jane McLean decided it is time to retire after almost 40 years. The news brought about a surge of nostalgia for those who have had one of its dresses over the years, remembering ‘If it has not got a bell, it is not a Chantelle.’ Photo: - Picture: Sarah Standing Photo: Sarah Standing
7. Fallen Acorn Brewing Co, Gosport
Fallen Acorn Brewing Co went into voluntary liquidation because of a continual series of crises that has forced them to make the decision. Picture: Chris Moorhouse Photo: Chris Moorhouse
8. Beer Muskateer
The Beer Musketeer, Albert Road, Southsea, announced its closure due to the strain from the cost of living crisis. Photo: Google Street View