Rumour Has It, a popular family-run restaurant in Sunderland, has closed its doors with immediate effect. The owners announced the decision on social media, describing it as one made with a 'heavy heart'.
Restaurant's history and location
The restaurant opened on Green Terrace in Sunderland city centre in March 2023. The area has seen numerous venues come and go over the years and is currently home to establishments such as Life of Riley, The Canny Lad and The Terrace. While The Terrace will remain open, Rumour Has It has closed, with the news broken in a Facebook post shared by the restaurant on Saturday afternoon.
Owners' statement and gratitude
The post began: 'It is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of our beloved family business, Rumour Has It Sunderland. The decision to close has not been an easy one, but it has simply become too difficult to continue.'
The statement continued: 'We are incredibly grateful to every customer, friend, and member of staff who has been part of our journey. Like any business, we’ve faced our share of challenges, but the overwhelming support, loyalty, kindness, and encouragement we’ve received over the past 3½ years have made it all worthwhile. You have given us memories that we will treasure forever.'
Rumour Has It's head chef Chris Stobbs and manager Ruby were singled out for particularly high praise. The statement added: 'We’d also like to thank every member of our current restaurant team for everything you’ve done. We couldn’t have done it without you. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your lives, for celebrating your special occasions with us, and for supporting our small family-run business through every challenge and every milestone. The friendships we’ve made and the memories we’ve created will stay with us forever.'
Public reaction and ongoing business
The post ended with assurances that it will be business as usual with The Terrace, unaffected by Rumour Has It's closure. The wealth of comments underneath spoke volumes about how loved the restaurant was, with one regular replying: 'So sorry to hear your news, yous were like a breath of fresh air to Sunderland.' Another commented: 'Always had a fabulous meal when we’ve been .. should be very proud.'
