'Truly sorry' - Much-loved South Tyneside restaurant to close its doors for good
It has fallen prey to the tough conditions in the hospitality industry
A much-loved South Tyneside restaurant is to close for good after a decade of trading.
El Tio Latin restaurant has been serving chimichangas, enchiladas and other delicious Mexican food on Ocean Road in South Shields since 2016.
However, the Gazette understands that the eatery has fallen prey to ongoing tough conditions in the hospitality industry, as well as the popularity of Indian food in the borough.
The restaurant is to close for good. Its last day of trading will be Sunday, September 13 which is also the day of the Great North Run.
The owners have expressed their sadness at having to move on, while stressing how much they have valued their customers during their time on Ocean Road.
The closure will take place just 22 days after pizza restaurant Log Fire Pizza, based at Mill Dam in South Shields, also shut its doors for the final time on August 22.
A statement from El Tio Latin said: “After a wonderful 10 years, it is with mixed emotions that we announce the closure of our restaurant.
“For the past decade, we have had the privilege of serving our amazing customers, sharing countless celebrations, and providing the most outstanding service to our community.
“What started as a restaurant became so much more because of the incredible people who walked through our doors.
“We are truly grateful for every visit, every order and every bit of support you have given us over the years. A special thanks to our customers who have been with us from the very beginning.
“Our final day of opening will be Sunday 13th September 2026, so please do come down for a heartfelt meal before we shut our doors for good.
“We will look back on this chapter with immense gratitude and so many happy memories.”
The news has been greeted with sadness by dozens of well-wishers on social media.
One typical comment was: “I’m truly sorry to read this. Always had a wonderful time here. The food was always fabulous and the people just as great.”
Eltio Latin will be serving up for the final time on Sunday from 1pm until 9pm.