Last month, the owner of one of Aberdeen’s most popular restaurants announced that they had been forced to close following the downturn in oil prices.
Stephen Dillon, owner of The Prime Cuts, said midweek trade had been “non-existent” since the beginning of 2016.
The closure is just one of a number of iconic Aberdeen restaurants that have shut up shop over the years.
Here are nine of our favourites…
1) The Prime Cuts
The closure that spawned an article. The restaurant closed its doors in March after nine years of service.
The restaurant’s website currently describes the business as in “hibernation” but there is no official re-opening date given and the future of the restaurant will likely depend on the state of the oil marker going forward.
The restaurant was inspired by New-York style steakhouses and specialised in steak and Lobster.
It closed its doors after nearly ten years of service.
2) Victoria Restaurant
A true icon of Aberdeen’s Union Street. Victoria Restaurant, which shared a building with jeweller Jamieson, closed its doors in 2015 after 60 years of service.
Managers Gillian and Gordon Harold operated the premises for 18 years before deciding to close and spend more time with their family.
3) The Beautiful Mountain
The restaurant closed in March 2015 after 15 years of serving the public.
Management made the announcement on their Facebook page, sparking a wave of tributes from regulars.
In the post, they said: “So, a sad day today. Today we announce that on the 31st March 2015 after 15 years of mostly highs, with a few lows thrown in- the beautiful mountain will close its doors for good.
“Thanks to all the wonderful people that we have had the pleasure of working with over the years and to all our customers past and present.”
4) Cammies Restaurant
Popular eatery Cammies shut up shop in May 2015 to make way for affordable flats to be created.
Building plans were left in limbo for a number of months and councillors did hope at one point that the establishment could be re-opened.
Unfortunately, the fate of Cammies has now been sealed and it looks as if the popular restaurant will remain only a happy memory.
5) The Stage Door
The Stage Door closed in May last year with the owners moving on to a new venture.
The restaurant ran for 18 years, attracting many loyal customer and fans – many of whom can now be found frequenting the patrons’ newly reinvigorated Dizzy’s restaurant.
6) The Foyer Restaurant and Art Gallery
The Foyer Restaurant and Art Gallery closed its doors on in January 2013 after the umbrella charity group, Aberdeen Foyer, took stock of their resources.
Bosses then made the difficult decision to close down the and focus funds on other projects in the city.
Profits from the restaurant were not invested back in the business, instead going to help the charity support disadvantaged young people through other projects, such as supported accommodation, learning, training and employability services.
The Foyer Restaurant had recently celebrated its 13th anniversary, having opened in 1999.
7) Gerard’s
Opening in 1974, the reputation and popularity of Gerard’s remained at a constant high up until its closure.
Famed for its excellent French food and wine, Gerard’s was run by patron Gerard Fletcher, offering a relaxed atmosphere and stylish décor with a rustic twist.
8) The Courtyard
The Courtyard closed at the end of 2015 to make way for a new barbecue venture.
The restaurant, in Alford Place, held a final Hogmanay party before closing its doors for the final time.
9) Pappagallos
Pappagallos, situated in Holburn Street, was an Aberdeen institution, developing something of a cult following.
A master in simple Italian cuisine, it was a favourite of students and families alike.
The bistro has now been replaced by Maggie’s Grill, which in itself has become one of the city’s most popular eateries.