FROME’s much-loved Spanish Deli and restaurant, Lo Rapitenc, is closing its doors to the community in December, due to struggles with the economic crisis, owners have said.
The deli and tapas restaurant opened in 2021 on Cheap Street and won the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice award in the same week the owners announced its closure, blaming high outgoings and low footfall in the cost-of-living crisis.
In a statement on their Facebook page, the owners said, “It’s ironic that we have won Tripadvisor’s Travellers Choice award today, in the same week that we have decided to close.
“The economic situation is just too rough on us as a small business; the outgoings so high, at a time when so few can afford the simple pleasures of eating out. We have so many great memories, and really value the friendships made with customers, other businesses and of course our Lo Rapitenc crew family. Keep an eye out for The Brave potato and love to you all la familia. Gracies a totes.”
The community have reacted to the news of the closure. “I am extremely sad to see the Spanish Deli close down,” says Frome resident Callum Green, “I have many fond memories there with friends and family since it opened. It became, very quickly, my favourite restaurant due to their fantastic food and wonderfully accommodating owners and staff. My best wishes go out to them at this time.”
Another resident said, “Thank you for all the delicious tapas. It has been such a gem. I remember their first birthday celebrations last year where it was packed full of residents dancing to Spanish guitar, eating tapas and celebrating community. It was a lively place where food and community were at the heart of it. I am genuinely sad to hear of shop and restaurant closures due to the cost-of-living crisis.”
