New lease of life for vacant shop in Limerick village with ‘badly needed’ cafe

THE opening of a new cafe and coffee shop in Murroe has brought a new lease of life to a retail premises which has been vacant for nearly a decade.

Cape and Clover, named to represent its South African and Irish owners has moved into the long-vacant Ahern’s Daybreak in the centre of the village.

The former convenience store has been closed since shortly after the passing of its proprietor PJ Ahern in 2018.

The coffee shop features a stylish yellow and green interior and promises a collection of freshly-made ‘sweet and savoury treats’ every morning.

Officially opening at the new location on September 1, Cape and Clover previously operated out of a small yellow and green coffee truck in the centre of the village. The ‘iconic’ van now sits as a centrepiece inside the coffee shop itself.

Taking to social media, the owners announced that they have sold out of baked goods every day so far.

“Words can not express how grateful we've been the past week. Its been 6 days since we opened our doors.... and wow. The support has been unreal. We've had the most amazing customers walk through our doors. Its amazing to see how the community comes together. Friends and family meeting up, grandparents taking their grandkids for a treat, regulars supporting everyday. I've never made so many cookies in 6 days. From the bottom of our hearts! Thank you.”

Members of the local community on Facebook have congratulated the owners and expressed their excitement at the opening of the ‘badly needed’ business.

“Its lovely to bring back a bit of life to the village.”

“Ye have brought something so lovely to the village and anything that brings connection to a community, a place to relax, meet up and share experiences is fabulous. Wishing you continued success.”

“Murroe very much needed this , delighted. Coffee is amazing.”

Cape and Clover is open 7 days a week , operating 7am to 4pm on weekdays and 9am to 4pm on Saturdays and Sundays.