The shocking closure of a second cafe this week in a coastal suburb of Adelaide

Less than two months after announcing a new menu, Beachside Wine Bar and Restaurant in West Beach has announced it will close, effective immediately. Less than a year ago, the eatery came under new management with updated branding and a completely revamped menu.

The cafe, with a rich menu for brunch and lunch, was an amazing destination for beach lovers. Unsurprisingly, the sudden closure raised eyebrows among many local residents.

Just this week the community was also devastated to learn of the closure of beloved Grange cafe, The Cooks Pantry, after an impressive 16 years in business. Despite what owners described as incredible community support, many hospitality owners have felt the pressure of the rising cost of living.

A Marin patron described Beachside as a “very welcoming cafe” on social media, but cited a lack of nearby parking as a possible factor in the establishment’s closure due to the popular West Beach Surf Club located nearby.

Other commentators have cited strong local competition as a possible factor in the café’s closure, recognizing Beachside as a fantastic, laid-back alternative to an often crowded surf club.

Small Business Owner Kelly commented, “As a small business owner in West Beach, supporting local people is so important to me! Sad news!

Others cited excruciating operating and rental costs as major challenges to owning local venues.

A number of cherished venues have closed this year, with Adelaide’s hospitality scene seemingly taking major hits at every turn.

Over the past twelve months, bars, bakeries and fine restaurants have closed their doors, many citing growing financial pressure. Glenelg was hit hard by the closure of respected local restaurant Cardone’s in March and the local branch of Hog’s Breath Cafe late last year.

It is testament to the growing complexity of the hospitality industry that many of the establishments we saw up close are well established and very popular. Enzo’s Ristorante closed its 25-year-old outlet in February this year, while Port Adelaide’s folk cafe ended its nine-year run.

Now more than ever, it’s important to support your favorite local establishments and help them stay open!