People of Ladywell wave goodbye to El’s kitchen

El and some of her staff at last year's Christmas tasting event. Pic: El's Kitchen

El and some of her staff at last year’s Christmas tasting event. Pic: El’s Kitchen

Ladywell bids a sad farewell to ‘El’s Kitchen’.

After three successful years, the much loved delicatessen is closing its doors today.

El’s Kitchen, which was proudly crowned 2nd place finalist for ‘Deli of the Year 2011’, has been extremely popular with everyone in the local area, since its opening in 2010.

Nabil Bengueloul, manager of a local café, said: “I was really shocked when she told me that she was closing, it’s such a successful business.”

Owner of El’s Kitchen, Eleanor Thompson, a well-respected figure of the community, did much for the local area. “She works so hard and has always been so welcoming, she is a keystone for our community,” said Bengueloul.

A number of people payed tribute to El’s Kitchen on their Facebook page, saddened by its closure.

Ali Painter said: “I’m so sorry to hear this. Your beautiful deli and you and your wonderful welcoming team will be sorely missed by me – and by Ladywell.

Thank you so much for all you have done, and wishing you the very best.”

Eleanor Thompson outside El's Kitchen. Pic: El's Kitchen

Eleanor Thompson outside El’s Kitchen. Pic: El’s Kitchen

Eleanor said: “It is with great regret that we have to inform all our lovely customers that El’s Kitchen will be closing for good.

It’s been a really hard decision for us to make and we’ve given it an enormous amount of consideration, and, although we have looked into other options, none are viable given the circumstances.”

Eleanor did not detail the exact circumstances surrounding the closure.

However, for everyone within the community of Ladywell it will be with great sadness that we bid  farewell to El’s Kitchen.

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