An Edinburgh restaurant has shared they will be closing for good after a number of factors left their business devastated.
Los Cardos, a Mexican eatery on Leith Walk, told customers on Thursday (August 19) that they have been left with no choice but to close after 11 years in the city.
Serving up a range of fresh mex-inspired dishes from haggis tacos to burritos, and a favourite of non other than Trainspotting author Irvine Welsh, staff shared their "great sadness" over the announcement.
In a post online, the eatery explained that both the pandemic and the ongoing tram works as part of the Newhaven extension project have had a huge impact on their footfall.
As road barricades remain in place along most of the once busy street, staff said their usual clientele had almost completely disappeared.
They wrote: "To our valued customers, family and friends who have supported us over the last 11+ years, it is with great sadness that we announce the permanent closure of Los Cardos Fresh Mex.
"As with many businesses, the pandemic has caused considerable operating challenges over the last year and a half which, we were largely able to adapt to and overcome, but coupling that with the ongoing tram works on Leith Walk has made the long-term viability of our business impossible.
"Once the barricades for the roadworks were placed in front of our doorstep after the first lockdown eased, our footfall was drastically reduced and we have battled logistical headaches with supplies and deliveries ever since.
"Since the initial lockdown, we went from a 60 per cent walk-in rate to nearly 100 per cent delivery. This meant an increase in commission rates to Deliveroo and Just-Eat, an increase in credit card transaction fees and a near complete stop of cash transactions.
"There was nothing to suggest that the situation would change in the near future so we have made the very, very difficult decision to close our doors."
After over a decade on Leith Walk, staff went on to urge locals to keep supporting the remaining businesses on Leith Walk as they battle through an extremely tough period.
They added: "We are incredibly grateful for the immense support we received over the years from our customers, our suppliers, our family and to Leith - for keeping us going as long as you did.
"As we close our doors and consider what’s next for our future, we ask that you continue to support the local, independent businesses along Leith Walk as they will no doubt appreciate your patronage. Shop local, be kind and always remember, #burritolove forever."
