Food & Drink
Manchester’s legendary Cafe Metro forced to close after four decades
They had initially looked to relocate but had been unable to ‘find a premises that enabled them to offer customers the same service and pricing.’
Cafe Metro, situated on High Street in the city centre, has announced its closure on social media.
The family run business, operated by father and son duo George and Michael Stavrinou, has closed its doors for good after four decades trading in the city.
Cafe Metro first opened its doors in 1982 before relocating to its High Street location on the edge of the Northern Quarter after the IRA bomb in 1996 destroyed its former site. It closed permanently on Christmas Eve 2022.
The family said they had initially looked to relocate but had been unable to ‘find a premises that enabled them to offer customers the same service and pricing.’
In a Facebook post they said: “It is with regret and great sadness that we announce the closure of Cafe Metro.
“We have come to the end of our lease and the landlord’s plans to redevelop means that we can’t stay.
“Although we have looked to relocate we have not been able to find premises that come close to enabling us to offer our customers the same service and pricing.
“With Christmas Eve being our last day, George, Michael and the family would like to thank all our customers for their valued custom and support over the last 25 years, we’ve enjoyed serving you and will miss our chats about life in general, families, cars, F1, football, you name it we’ve probably talked about it.
“Thank you to our valued staff for your hard work and support, particularly now in our final week and last but not least Aida who has been part of the Cafe Metro family for over 20 years – thank you for all your hard work and support until the very end.
“We wish you and your families a very Merry Christmas, Happy New Year 2023 and the very best for the future.
“Goodbye for now.”
Commenters on the post shared their love for the cafe and their sadness upon hearing the news. Amanda Jane Pritchard said: “ Gutted, my first job after leaving school was at Cafe Metro. Loved my job. Town won’t be the same. Take care and good luck in all you do.”
Raimonda Arne said: “Such a shame it’s closing. I have some lovely memories working there back in 2006 when I was a student. Good luck, George, Aida and Michael.”
Thekla Sotiriou said: “The end of an era. Such a loss to Manchester! Wishing you all the best in all that comes next. Sending all our love and best wishes.”