A POPULAR Irish bar described as ‘one of most unique places’ has announced it will close for good after eight years of business.
The Dublin hotspot is planning to cease operations next month as bosses revealed they were unwilling to increase their prices to meet the rising cost of business.
Token, a bar, restaurant, and retro arcade space, located near Smithfield in Dublin 7, said it will close its doors for good on the 16 of June.
The business took to social media to tell customers that rising costs are to blame for the closure of the venue.
Management said that they might start again in the future, but sadly admitted that there are currently no plans to reopen.
Breaking the news to fans they wrote: “Big, sad, news
“After eight wonderful years, we will be closing for good on June 16.
“Though often fully booked, we can’t justify raising prices further to meet rising costs. We may do it all again sometime in the future, but chances are slim and there is no plan to reopen.
“We’ve made amazing memories with our guests and received strong community support both supportive during tough times and sometimes quite critical – but regardless, it felt good to know that people cared about what we were trying to do.
“Our team has been fantastic during crazy times – weathering floods, fires, and even an actual pandemic.
“Our current staff have been informed of the decision to close since early March, and we are grateful for them giving it their all and still providing great experiences to our guests as we wind things down.
“We’ve made a lot of friends for life and this in its own has made the journey worth it.
“From now until the 16, we hope our final days are a long celebration. Guinness and other pints will be only €5, classic menu items will return, cocktails all discounted, and we’ll put on an event or two.
“If you have tokens at home, now’s the time to use them! Same if you have any gift cards.
“All in all, it’s quite sad, but we gave it our best effort and are walking away with hundreds of memories.”
Disappointed customers
Fans shared their disappointment with the move and offered their support to the owners.
One follower said: “Yet another place closing due to the government’s lack of backing small businesses, great places like this won’t exist in the future, more support is needed for small businesses, best of luck in the future guys.”
Another fan said: “I am so sorry to hear this, you should be super proud of the work you’ve done, one of the most unique places in Dublin and not just a gimmick, the food is always fantastic too.
“Wishing you all the best.”
‘Devastated’
A separate fan said: “Absolutely devastated to hear this.
“Some of the best nights I’ve had town have been with yas, even just popping in before and after a film in the lighthouse.”
Dublin eatery Coke Lane Pizza also shared their dismay, saying: “Jesus this hit hard. Since the beginning, I was in awe of Shane and the kitchen team smashing it day in day out.
“Cracking menu and delivered so so well. Such a great place.
“Good luck with your next move. It will be class, no doubt.”
And a former employee added: “I’ve worked at Token for over 3 years, and I can say that was one of the best times I’ve had in Ireland.
“Token will be missed a lot! I wish everyone all the very best!”
Another ex-worker said: “Can’t believe it! The coolest place I had the pleasure work.”