THE owner of an award-winning restaurant says he is saddened to have to close it after constant floods. 

Angelo Petritaj has also revealed plans for a cocktail bar had to be shelved following opposition in the town. 

We reported in October All' Angelo, on Queen Street in Droitwich, had to close due to extreme flooding. 

That was the eighth time the restaurant had to shut its doors with staff desperately trying to salvage electrical items and furniture again.

Worcester News: RESTAURANT: All'Angelo is closing this monthRESTAURANT: All'Angelo is closing this month (Image: Newsquest)

Mr Petritaj said: "Flooding is a big part of the decision (to permanently close).

"We have floods every year, it costs thousands and insurance won't cover it.

"We have no help from the government either."

The owner said it was hard enough trying to run the restaurant without flooding, due to the rising costs. 

"With the cost of living crisis, it's ridiculous," he said.

Worcester News: FLOODING: Flooding in October 2023FLOODING: Flooding in October 2023 (Image: All' Angelo)

The owner revealed he was also stepping away from the business due to mental health saying that was "more important than anything". 

We previously reported Mr Petritaj was behind a plan to open a cocktail and tapas bar at the historic 31 Droitwich High Street property

Mr Petritaj said that scheme never got off the ground and they decided not to go ahead a few months ago.

"I don't think people were keen on a bar open to 3am," he said.

"You can do it in a city but not a town like Droitwich."

The news of All' Angelo's closure was announced to customers on the restaurant's Facebook page on Thursday, (January 18). 

The post said: "Dear our valued customers, it has been a pleasure, but after giving it some thought, we have chosen to close for good on January 27th.

"Until then we would be really appreciative for any bookings. We will always be grateful for all your custom over the years."

Worcester News: PLAN: 31 High Street, Droitwich had planned to be a barPLAN: 31 High Street, Droitwich had planned to be a bar (Image: Newsquest)

The post received hundreds of comments from well-wishers describing it as a "shame" and saying they were "gutted" to hear of the closure.

"It is heartbreaking to close - we have been there three-and-a-half years," Mr Petritaj said.

"We have had loyal customers, people come from all over the place - even from three hours away to see us."