Checho’s Sydney in Penrith closes down as bosses reveal the sad reason why they’re shutting their doors for good

Australia’s tough hospitality industry has forced a beloved Mexican restaurant in Sydney’s west into liquidation.

Checho’s, a modern Mexican restaurant in Penrith, announced its closure last Saturday ahead of its last day of business on Sunday.

The restaurant’s directors announced the news on Instagram.

“We regret to inform you all that this will be the last weekend of operations for Checho’s team at our home on High St,” they said.

‘It’s been an incredible four years at the heart of this community and we can’t thank each and every one of our loyal customers enough for your support.

‘It’s been one hell of a ride and we’re so proud of what we’ve been able to create.’

The post went on to explain why the restaurant closed, pointing the blame at Australia’s struggling hospitality industry.

“Having said that, these are really tough times for hospitality and our only parting wish is that you continue to support local restaurants, cafes and bars,” it read.

‘There are so many incredible operators and businesses who are hurting and can’t get through this period without you.’

Chad Rapsey of Rapsey Griffiths will oversee the liquidation of the restaurant, which opened in October 2020.

The size of the company’s debt and the number of employees the closure will affect is not yet known.

Disappointed fans of Checho’s commented during the restaurant’s farewell post.

‘This is so sad! We love your restaurant and it always seems busy!’ wrote one.

‘It is certainly a tough time at the moment for all hospitality venues. Very sad to see you go, said another.

‘You will be so missed. I will always remember my birthday in lockdown where we ate your dinners home and it made my day so much brighter,’ wrote another.

‘This is very sad news. There is not and never will be another place like it. Such a great place,’ wrote a fourth customer.

However, other commenters were less than impressed to see that the restaurant was still selling gift cards and taking reservations after its closing date.

‘I have a gift card, what should happen to this?’ asked one.

‘Then why did you let me book a party of 12 in April?’, wrote another.

New data from the CreditorWatch Business Risk Index for February showed that hospitality insolvencies rose by 53 percent in the past financial year.

Food and drink businesses were rated at the highest risk of failure “by a significant margin”, while western Sydney was hardest hit.

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Checho’s and Mr Rapsey for comment.