One of Dalton Park's largest restaurants closes its doors
It occupies one of the largest restaurant units at Dalton Park, but a popular North East restaurant chain has closed its Murton store.
Signage has gone up at Zapatista in Dalton Park, near the Cineworld side of the outlet, saying “Due to unforeseen circumstances this store is closed. Apologies for any inconvenience”.
The sign has been in place for some days and Christmas decorations can still be seen through the windows.
Richard Kaye, Centre Manager at Dalton Park, said: "We are sorry to see that Zapatista has closed down, and we wish its staff well. It is always sad to see retailers close. We are continuing to work to keep Dalton Park a fresh and exciting place to visit.”
Zapatista has since posted a statement on Facebook saying: “It comes with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of Zapatista Dalton Park.
“Thank you to all of the lovely customers that supported us over the last two years, but unfortunately due to numerous continuing rising costs, we have had to close our doors at Dalton Park.
“Thank you for all of the messages of concern, and we appreciate all of you that visited us during our time at Dalton Park. Please continue to support us at Newcastle or Durham.”
The Mexican restaurant opened in Dalton Park in December 2023, transforming the former Pizza Express site, which had been empty since 2020 when the pizza chain closed the branch as part of a wave of closures post-pandemic.
It brought with it its trademark colourful decor, burritos, tacos, quesadillas, fajitas and nachos.
Zapatista opened its first branch in Ridley Place in Newcastle more than ten years ago and fast built up a firm following.
It's since opened a second Newcastle branch in Grainger Street and a branch in Elvet Bridge, Durham City, with business as usual at those three sites.