Staff working at a Dundee restaurant which suddenly closed have yet to be paid, it has been claimed.
Perth Road’s Meat House Bar & Grill restaurant closed on Tuesday. Social media accounts were deleted and the restaurant is currently listed as ‘permanently closed’ on Google.
Candice Hackey, who owns the eatery with husband Darren, said on Wednesday the pair were in the process of trying to sell the restaurant to a new owner but that all staff had been kept informed about the changes.
However, some employees have claimed they have not been paid their most recent wage.
A family member of a worker at the restaurant, who did not want to be named, said: “I am raging with the set up.
“They were told they would be basically taken over to the new owner then had to apply for the job. Either they are kept on or paid-off.
“I believe some staff are owed thousands. They are meant to be paid on the first of every month. I am not in the UK just now so had to arrange to get money home for my wife and kids.”
Dundee West MP Joe Fitzpatrick said he was concerned to hear of the issues.
He said: “My thoughts are with those affected, in particular the staff, who I understand are unsure about their futures. It is vitally important that staff are paid what they are owed and are given certainty about their position going forward as soon as possible.”
West End councillor Fraser Macpherson said he hoped any problems with wages would be sorted as soon as possible.
He said: “I would be very concerned if staff have not been paid. If that is the case then I would hope the owners will rectify that. The Meat House has built up a pretty good reputation.
“I think it is a valuable part of the West End’s dining scene so I hope new owners can be found.”
Many customers spoke of their dismay having received no assurance pre-paid vouchers would still be redeemable if the restaurant reopens.
Kirsty Cairney, who received a gift voucher for the Meat House as a Christmas present, said: “Shame on the owners.
“Nothing was mentioned about a possible closure and the vouchers were dated for the end of March.
“I haven’t been able to get in touch with the restaurant so I have contacted trading standards.”
The restaurant’s owners could not be reached for comment.
