A POPULAR Italian restaurant in Glasgow city centre has closed its doors for good. 

Gusto revealed the news to diners on Facebook citing the Covid-19 pandemic as the reason.

In a statement, the Bothwell Street restaurant said: "It’s with a heavy heart that we announce the permanent closure of our restaurant in Glasgow.

"This is not a decision that we intended to make but sadly we have been left with no choice.

"COVID-19 has had a significant impact on our business, like many in the industry and we're terribly sad to be closing our doors.

"We can’t thank you enough for being members of our Gusto family, for choosing us to celebrate birthdays, graduations, anniversaries and so many other special occasions with us, which we hold dear to our hearts.

"We do hope that this isn’t goodbye and hope to welcome you in one of our other Gusto restaurants across the country soon."

The chain also has a restaurant in Edinburgh but devastated diners still expressed their shock over the news. 

Aimee White said: "Heartbroken! My go-to restaurant  Always such great service, wish all the staff the best."

Gerry Muir said: "Very sad for all your very hard working staff, I do hope you can help them find alternative employment."

Jennifer Low added: "I’m so sorry to hear this. Always had a lovely time when had dinner or just in for drinks."