'Devastated': Shock sudden closure of popular Limerick cafe

THE SHOCK closure of one of the most popular and long-standing cafe’s in Limerick city has been announced by its owner.

Paul Williams, of Canteen, said in social media posts that he decided that yesterday (Saturday) was to be their “last day trading”. Canteen started on Mallow Street before moving to a bigger premises on Catherine Street.

“It’s less about this month or the last quarter and it’s more about the next five to seven years of the business and many of the challenges small businesses face; static sales and ever rising costs. these fundamentals I don’t see changing in the near future,” wrote Paul.

He says that is not a sad post but a happy one for the “14 amazing years I had working daily with some amazing people and some of Ireland's best small producers, and of course, you the customers, who started in 2012 as strangers quickly became regulars and now some are very good friends”.

Paul wrote: “I just want to thank you all very much for the fun and great food we have had together over the years. I will share some of the highs and lows over the next week or two.”

He concludes the post by signing off as “Paul & the team” and saying they will be still be open in the bread shop on Friday, Saturday and Sunday which is located at the Milk Market.

Many have expressed their shock and disappointment at the news on social media underneath the posts.

“Devastated to hear this. My favourite spot in the city. Incredible quality food and coffee always, the soundest staff. Such a huge loss,” wrote one.

Another said: “Sad to read this - always consistent, high quality food and coffee with a friendly service. Best of luck in the future.”