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It what has been a dismal few weeks for small businesses in Wicklow, another blow was dealt with the announcement from Maison Moli that there are to close their doors for the last time this Sunday, 21st May. The popular Bray eatery which has been in situ for 9 years at what was once ‘Jim Doyles’ pub on Bray seafront shared the news late on Tuesday evening.
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As this closure looms, so too does the closure of fellow Bray Seafront establishment, Ripasso Restaurant and Wine Bar. Having announced the closure last month, the final service grows ever closer for the Ripasso team as they prepare to bid Arrivederci to their home of the last 4 years.
Many diners will be adding fond memories of Ripasso to those of Campo di Fiore and even The Escape Restaurant before them, other well loved neighbourhood eateries who enjoyed the premises previously.
In the case of both of the above establishments, food quality is high, social followings are strong and they are in prime locations, approaching what will be their busiest season. So what is happening to our loved and lamented establishments? Have the continual price increases across all areas of the hospitality industry increased so much that we will continue to loose our small independent food joints?
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Just over Bray Head and another literal Hot Spot, Greystones’, Arts, Music, Comedy, Family Celebration Club named ‘Hot Spot’ who have been resident above the Beach House pub at Greystones ‘Harbour’ since 2014 are being given there marching orders. The owners are reclaiming the venue and will be returning it to a Restaurant once again. This leaves Ailbhe, owner of Hot Spot Music Club having to seek out an alternative space for the funky club. If you are looking for one last night out, get in before 30th June when she shuts up shop in the current space.
If you have a voucher for any of the above mentioned venues, do get in touch with the relevant establishment as soon as possible to redeem them or pop in to wish them well before they finish up. Closing a business can be more difficult than opening one and emotions will certainly be high for all impacted.
If you have a small food business near you, now is a great time to pay them a visit.
