“I'm surprised” fans shout as the family's favorite chain abruptly closes its restaurant

A FAMILY-favorite restaurant chain has abruptly closed one of its branches, leaving fans “stunned”.

Cafe Rouge, owned by the Big Table Group, has 12 branches in the UK.

The Big Table Group also owns Las Iguanas and Bella Italia, as well as brands such as Frankie & Benny's, which was previously owned by rival chain The Restaurant Group (TRG).

It operates more than 230 locations across the country

But now Cafe Rouge has shuttered its Brighton Marina branch on February 1.

Customers have taken to social media to share their sadness over the decision.

One Facebook user said: “Sad, I will miss Cafe Rouge. Great food!”

Another wrote: “I'm amazed.”

While a third said: “What a shame!”

It comes after Cafe Rouge closed its branch on Seamoor Road, Westbourne, Bournemouth in December.

The chain still has restaurants in London, Cardiff and Portsmouth.

Food and beverage chains in general have suffered in recent months as the cost of living has led to fewer people spending money on eating out.

The hospitality sector as a whole has struggled to recover from the pandemic, but has been hit by rising energy bills and inflation.

Several chains have also been affected, causing brands such as Wetherspoons to close branches.

Byron Burger fell into administration last year, with owners saying it would result in the loss of more than 200 jobs.

Italian restaurant chain Prezzo announced plans to close 46 restaurants due to rising energy and food costs, putting 810 jobs at risk.

It comes after TRG, which also owns Wagamama, revealed it will close around 40 locations by April this year.

Under the plans, the entire recreation area will be reduced from 116 locations to between 75 and 85.

TRG first announced the closures in March 2023, reported mounting losses last year and said some of its restaurant chains were directly affected by the cost-of-living crisis.

Dozens of closures have occurred so far, including locations of Frankie & Bennys, Chiquito and Firejacks.

TRG also had to close hundreds of restaurants due to the coronavirus pandemic.

At least 61 Chiquito restaurants closed in 2020, resulting in the loss of approximately 1,500 jobs.

Subsequently, 125 other restaurants were closed, including many Frankie & Benny's locations.

It also closed its Food and Fuel pub chain in London completely.

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