A high-profile Manchester restaurant, backed by Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola, has served its final meal, succumbing to the severe pressures facing the UK's hospitality industry.
The End of a Culinary Era on King Street
Tast, the Catalan-focused dining spot on King Street, closed permanently on December 20. The restaurant, which first opened its doors in 2018, was a passion project for Guardiola, who invested alongside Manchester City CEO Ferran Soriano and the club's former director of football, Txiki Begiristain.
Helmed by renowned Michelin-starred chef Paco Pérez, Tast aimed to bring the authentic flavours of Guardiola's native Catalonia to the heart of Manchester. The three-storey venue offered a ground-floor bar, a first-floor dining room, and private tasting rooms on the second floor.
Challenging Conditions Force 'Difficult Decision'
In a social media statement, the team announced the closure was due to 'exceptionally challenging' trading conditions and 'increased costs'. They echoed the struggles of many businesses in the sector, stating it was a 'difficult decision' to cease operations.
The restaurant had become a known haunt for Guardiola himself, who was photographed dining there with players like Kevin De Bruyne, Sergio Aguero, and former assistant Mikel Arteta, as well as with his wife, Cristina Serra.
Customer Reaction and Practical Aftermath
The news was met with disappointment from loyal patrons. One described Tast as their 'favourite restaurant in Manchester', while others noted the harsh reality of the high-end market. Industry statistics suggest that surviving seven years is an achievement, with only half of restaurants making it past five years.
The management also addressed practical concerns, confirming that all unredeemed gift vouchers would be automatically refunded, with the process expected to take 14 working days from December 21.
The closure marks the end of a significant chapter for Manchester's fine-dining scene, highlighting the ongoing economic headwinds facing restaurants across the country, regardless of their prestigious backing.
