Andrea Mellon who ran Dukpond Pic: Tony Worrall
A restaurant owner who decided to shut her popular tapas haunt has blamed ‘traffic issues’ for its closure.
Dukpond closed on Wednesday with Andrea Mellon saying it was a mix of issues.
She’s now released a statement to Blog Preston giving more detail on her decision which has left foodies across the city, and Lancashire, heartbroken.
Ms Mellon said: “It was a difficult and distressing decision, but one I had to make.
The restaurant had been trading from Cross Street, near Winckley Square, for the last five years.
She continued: “The Square is a poignant part of Preston’s heritage and BID and the Winckley Square group work hard to facilitate trade and awareness. I can only see good things for the area which is such a shame I won’t be there.
“I am so proud to have been part of Preston, the Guild and Lancashire for so long.”
Her words come following months of arguments between business groups and Lancashire County Council about the new Fishergate road layout.
The reaction on Blog Preston’s Facebook and Twitter page has been an outpouring of love for the restaurant.
A selection of Dukpond’s dishes
George Turberfield said: “Sad. We went there with a group. Amongst us we had one wheat intolerant vegetarian. Two vegans. One wheat, soy and dairy free person – and we all ate like kings and were accommodated without so much as a raised eyebrow. Very impressive.”
Kat Metcalf commented: “Only went for the first time last month- absolutely loved it and was looking forward to going back. I’m coeliac and dairy intolerant and they catered for me so well. Gutted.”
Sarah Jane East said: “Its sad to see such a great restaurant close! It was great working there and the history of the whole place is amazing especially the owner too.”
Laura Heaton said: “Totally gutted, loved this place. Preston needs more of these types of restaurants not less.”
Duk’s previous home in Lancaster Road is to continue trading as Winedown, and Dukpond’s new venture into Chorley is also to stay open.
Did you ever eat at Dukpond? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below