Popular chocolate cafe announces shock closure in yet another blow for Ancoats

Ancoats has lost another great independent – chocolate cafe Cocoa Cabana has announced it’s taken the ‘difficult decision’ to shut down in the trendy neighbourhood.

The popular spot, famed for its chocolate-laden afternoon teas, Dubai pistachio bars, and smores platters (to name a few), said that it has become ‘unsustainable’ to continue operating in Ancoats.

Cocoa Cabana said that’s it’s been faced with a 200% increase the cost of chocolate, along with increases in the prices of ingredients, wages, and business rates.

And so they’re taking the decision to ‘downsize and refocus’ after ‘incredibly challenging years’.

Their West Didsbury site will remain open, as will their online store and their Selfridges Trafford Centre concession where you can buy their artisan chocolate products.

Founder Sarah said: “On a personal note, after 12 years of running Cocoa Cabana, this decision comes with a lot of emotion – but also hope.

“I’m looking forward to the chance to focus on our chocolate, new opportunities and maybe even take a little time to spend with family and friends.

“Thank you so much to everyone who’s supported us in Ancoats. You’ve made this journey incredibly special.”

Taking its place will be Spanish restaurant Can Petit, which has already been operating as an evening pop-up in the space.

The closure of Cocoa Cabana follows a difficult run for the neighbourhood, which has lost the likes of Sugo Pasta Kitchen (then Rigatoni’s), Hip Hop Chip Shop, and Trove in the last year.

Thankfully there are still some great new businesses moving in, such as Bruco, Ancoats Deli, and Bangkok Diners Club.

You can read the full statement on the closure of Cocoa Cabana Ancoats below

It’s with a heavy heart that we’re announcing the closure of our Ancoats venue, with our final day of service on Sunday 8th June.

We opened our doors in 2019 with big dreams and so much excitement, creating a beautiful space we were truly proud of. Sadly, just six months later, we were forced to close during Covid. Like many in hospitality, the years that followed have been incredibly challenging.

Despite our best efforts, the rising costs of ingredients, wages, business rates – and a 200% increase in the cost of chocolate – have made it unsustainable for us to continue operating in Ancoats. As a result, we’ve made the difficult decision to downsize and refocus.

We’ve loved being part of the vibrant Ancoats food scene and while we’re sad to say goodbye, we’re genuinely thrilled to be handing over the reins to @canpetit_ – a fantastic Spanish tapas venture that’s already been making waves as an evening pop-up in our space. Led by the incredibly talented chefs David and Jorge, we know they’ll continue to bring something special to the neighbourhood.

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Our West Didsbury site remains open as usual (where all gift vouchers remain valid) and you can still shop online or visit us at our Trafford Centre concession at Selfridges 7 days a week.

On a personal note, after 12 years of running Cocoa Cabana, this decision comes with a lot of emotion – but also hope. I’m looking forward to the chance to focus on our chocolate, new opportunities and maybe even take a little time to spend with family and friends.

Thank you so much to everyone who’s supported us in Ancoats. You’ve made this journey incredibly special. 💗🙏🏻

– Sarah & the rest of the Cocoa Cabana team x

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Featured image: The Manc Group