Simon Rimmer’s legendary vegetarian restaurant Greens closes after 33 years

TV Chef Simon Rimmer says his Greens restaurant in Didsbury has closed ‘for good’ due to ‘increased rent’ costs.

Sunday Brunch host Rimmer opened Greens with business partner Simon Connolly in 1990 on Lapwing Lane, Didsbury. But after 33 years the vegetarian restaurant has sadly closed its doors.

Taking to Instagram Mr Rimmer, 60, said: “With great sadness we have had to close the doors on Greens Didsbury for good after 33 fantastic years.”

The celebrity chef, who co-hosts Sunday Brunch on Channel 4 with Tim Lovejoy, blamed a rise in rent and running costs for making the restaurant ‘unviable’, calling it a ‘heart-breaking day’. 

He blamed the closure on an increase in rent of 35% following equally unmanageable increases in energy and food costs.

He continued: “We can no longer make it work – our landlord has increased our rent by 35%, that together with increases in power, food and staff costs have made it impossible for us to continue we’d like to thank every single customer, member of staff, supplier and our friends and neighbours for being part of the journey.”

Greens had long been a staple for vegetarians eating in the city.

Its infamous take on ‘duck pancakes’ – made with deep fried oyster mushrooms instead – which was a popular choice with regulars and remained on the menu for a number of years.

“Our sister restaurant in Sale is still open and we’d love to see you all there to help the Greens story continue. If you have a reservation with us we’ll be in touch. Love thanks and keep terrifying the carnivores, Simon and Simon,” the Greens co-owners added.

Commenting on social media, fans and regulars of the restaurant have been sharing their reaction to the news.

“This is terrible news,” said one. “Had my first meal here in 1995 and been coming back regularly ever since. My son got engaged here. So many happy memories. We are truly devastated.”

“Oh no! I’m devastated about this! My favourite place… so sorry you’ve had to close,” wrote a second.

“This is so sad, we’ve had 15+ years of making memories and having wonderful times here,” a third put.

And another added: “Devastated for you all and myself. We regularly make the 30 mile there and back trip for the luxury of being able to order anything rather than be faced with a sad girl veggie lasagne.”