Popular Italian café and deli, Carluccio’s is counting down its final days before it closes in just two weeks.

The restaurant, in Crowngate Shopping Centre, will shut its doors on Sunday, July 22.

The restaurant has altered its opening hours in the run down to its closure and is now only open between 8am and 4pm Sunday to Friday and 8am until 8pm on Saturday.

As we reported, the chain announced its Worcester branch would close after the company entered a Company Voluntary Arrangement (CVA). The company blamed the closure on “rising business costs and unsustainable rental levels.”

Customers have expressed sadness at the news.

Luke Pitman said: “I really liked the place. It wasn’t expensive, and the set menu was a bargain. It even had authentic singing Italian waiters. I will miss it.”

Adriana Reis said: “I loved that restaurant. One of the few with truly Mediterranean food at desirable prices. It’s such a shame.”

Other people expressed concern that high rental costs were to blame.

Simon Hundley said: “Disgraceful that even the big companies are having to close shops in Worcester, let alone the small independent places.”

A spokesman from Carluccio’s said: “We thank our team for their hard work, passion and commitment and endeavour to place staff at alternative Carluccio’s sites wherever possible.”

The restaurant also included a small deli and shop.