Las Iguanas, a popular Latin American casual dining chain, has announced the closure of its Glasgow city centre branch after 12 years of operation. The restaurant, located at 16-20 West Nile Street, will permanently shut its doors on August 2, leaving only one Las Iguanas venue in Scotland, situated in The Centre in Livingston.
Closure Announcement and Customer Reaction
The news was shared on Facebook, where the restaurant stated it was closing "with a heavy heart." The post read: "It is with a heavy heart that we share some sad news. After many wonderful years of serving the people of Glasgow, Las Iguanas Glasgow will be closing its doors on the 2nd of August." Customers responded with dismay, with one commenting: "Absolutely gutted. My husband and I love a boozy brunch here. Sad news." Another wrote: "Gutted. One of the places that caters for so many dietary requirements, with such friendly staff."
Restaurant's History and Reputation
Las Iguanas opened its Glasgow branch in 2014, offering "authentic" Latin American cuisine inspired by Mexico, Brazil, and beyond. The chain is known for its bottomless brunch, tapas, and cocktail menu. The Glasgow venue averaged a 4.5 rating on TripAdvisor based on over 2,000 reviews, with high marks for customer service, food, atmosphere, and value. The restaurant thanked its visitors for sharing special moments and acknowledged past and present staff for making the branch "more than a restaurant."
Impact on Staff and Final Days
Bosses asked customers to "show a little extra patience and kindness" to employees during the emotional period. They urged patrons to visit one last time, concluding: "From the bottom of our hearts, thank you, Glasgow. We'll never forget you." Many customers planned final visits, with one saying: "Ohh so sorry to hear one of my fav places will visit before u close x." Another tagged loved ones, writing: "Final visit? Loved it here xx."
Broader Context
The Glasgow closure follows Las Iguanas being saved from administration. Parent firm Big Table Group secured court approval for restructuring plans that rescued all 44 outlets across the UK. Separately, one of Scotland's three remaining Wimpy restaurants, located in Dingwall High Street, has been put up for sale at £159,000.
