Earlier today we became aware that the lovely cafe in St Andrew Square may be closing.
Seen this one, @STVEdinburgh? #saverazzo pic.twitter.com/mGE9pUCK6k
— ScranSalon (@ScranSalon) June 23, 2014
We were there only yesterday enjoying an Americano in the sunshine, and have enjoyed the great coffee many times over the years. The cafe was one of the few places you could get wifi a couple of years back.
Even during the months that Occupy Edinburgh took up residence in the square the coffee shop kept going, despite the danger to them and indeed their alcohol licence posed by the protesters who camped in the garden.
Paul Anderson of Razzo who has run the cafe in St Andrew Square since Essential Edinburgh opened the garden to the public has posted a notice which says:-
“Monday 23 June 2014 is the last day Razzo Coffee can trade from this property. Our landlord Essential Edinburgh, has found a paperwork technicality to allow them to terminate our lease with immediate effect. We have not been given a reason for the decision and they refuse to communicate with us. We can confirm it was not based on any financial issues; their actions will force us out of business and our staff will lose their jobs.
“We are appealing to the City of Edinburgh Council who fund Essential Edinburgh and would appreciate any notes of support to paul@razzocoffee.co.uk
“Finally thank you for your custom over the past six years.”
Andy Neal of Essential Edinburgh said:- “We have been placed in a position where, regrettably, we have had to place this matter in the hands of our solicitors, because of repeated breaches of the terms of the lease agreement.
It is important to note that the payment of all monies owed by this tenant is vital, as it is this income which pays for the upkeep of St Andrew Square Garden. When it is not paid in full, we have difficulty in maintaining this private garden to the standard that the owners and the people of Edinburgh expect and deserve.
Despite our best efforts, the monies owed have not been paid in full and we have, unfortunately, had no alternative but to take this action.”
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