AN award-winning Scots bar has announced its closure after 15 years in business.
Orchid Cocktails in Aberdeen will pull down the shutters for the final time on Friday.
The bar is famed for its expertly crafted cocktails[/caption]
The owner’s other venue Ninety Nine in Aberdeen has also been listed for sale[/caption]
The popular premium drinks spot is renowned for its signature creations, cocktail kits, and mixology sessions.
Since opening in 2009, the much-loved venue has earned numerous accolades over the years, including being crowned Scottish Cocktail Bar of the Year four times, making it onto the UK‘s Top 50 Bars list in 2019, and being named one of GQ’s top bars.
Despite its success, the venue has been on the market since August last year in the hopes of finding new owners.
However, after failing to secure a buyer, the current owners have made the difficult decision to close permanently.
The bar is owned by Monkey Bars Aberdeen Limited, whose other venue, Bar Ninety Nine in the Granite City, was also listed for sale last week.
In a heartfelt statement, the directors said: “While this marks the end of an incredible chapter, we take immense pride in the memories we’ve created and the cocktail bar community that we’ve built and nurtured over the last 15 years in Aberdeen.
“The hospitality industry is facing significant challenges, including soaring business rates, rising energy costs, and shifting consumer habits.
“Combined with a sharp decline in footfall in Aberdeen city centre, our trading environment has become increasingly difficult in recent years.
“We are deeply grateful to our team, supporters, and partners who have been a part of the journey.”
Devastated punters flocked to social media to react to the sad news.
One wrote: “No way, I can’t believe it, lots of amazing memories! It’s a massive shame.”
Another added: “That was a good boozer too. I’ve not been in town in years but liked that place”
A third said: “We don’t even have time to set up a final trip there!”
Elsewhere, a little-known restaurant that serves up Indian food alongside traditional Scots fare has been named the best in the country.
And a Scots bakery chain that some fans have branded “better than Greggs” is opening a new store to celebrate a milestone birthday.
