Broughty Ferry cafe Jessie’s Kitchen, which closed suddenly last month, has “significant” debts.
The Albert Road business informed customers on June 30 by social media that it would not reopen its doors.
Now liquidators Kenneth Pattullo and Kenneth Craig from Begbies Traynor have been appointed to wind up the firm.
Mr Pattullo said his immediate priority is making sure staff receive wages due.
He said: “The joint liquidators have secured the company assets and have begun the process for employees to claim any unpaid entitlements to which they are due.
“23 members of staff were made redundant.”
Debts in Jessie’s Kitchen
The business, which also comprised a farm shop and garden centre, had a large garden and outside seating.
Despite appearing popular with customers, the liquidators said it is unlikely a buyer for the cafe will be found.
“The company ceased trading with the doors being closed,” Mr Pattullo adds.
“It is unlikely there will be a potential buyer for the business in its current state, although there is an opportunity for any interested party to come forward.”
Meanwhile the liquidators are establishing the level of debt in the business.
Mr Pattullo said: “It is understood that there is a significant amount due to creditors which the company was unable to service.
“Any creditor is encouraged to come forward in order that their creditor position can be determined.”
‘Absolutely gutted’ to close
In a statement released when the closure was announced owner Ross Turriff said he was “gutted to say goodbye”.
He added: “It’s been a fantastic rollercoaster and learning curve that we wouldn’t have swapped it for the world.
“We’re so grateful to everyone who’s walked through our doors and supported us.
“Closing the doors this suddenly is far from ideal, we totally get that, but there are some things in this that we just couldn’t alter. We’re so sorry for any customers affected.
“Part of closing in this way is to protect our fantastic staff.”
Jessie’s Kitchen opened in 2010 in what was Mr Turriff’s grandparents’ home, known previously as Broomhall.
The cafe is one of a series of hospitality closures in Tayside and Fife.
In the past month Blasta restaurant in Perth, Harvest Mouse Tearoom in Fife and Bearpig of Arbroath have all shut.
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