Bunnyconnellan’s, a landmark Cork pub and restaurant, is closed for the foreseeable future, becoming the latest establishment forced to go due to rising energy bills and other expenditures.
After nearly 50 years in operation, the Myrtleville restaurant owners announced on social media that they will close indefinitely.
“It is with a heavy heart that we have decided to put Bunnys to sleep until this economic storm passes,” the post reads.
“We thank all our amazing staff and loyal customers for everything.”
Their sister establishment, The Lodge Bar in Myrtleville, remains open.
Hundreds of responses from previous customers expressed shock and grief at the announcement, recalling wonderful moments and wishing the employees well.
Since launching in the 1970s, Paul O’Brien and his family have survived numerous storms, including the recent Covid-19 pandemic.
The popular bar and restaurant built high on cliffs overlooking Myrtleville beach took the full brunt of Ophelia’s hurricane-force winds in 2017 and was forced to close for several days. It drew generations of Cork families and visitors alike, who were drawn in by its location and gastro pub food.
The shutdown comes amid industry concerns that more restaurants and bars are set to close – or drastically reduce their opening hours – due to rising energy prices and other expenditures, as well as trouble hiring and maintaining personnel. Porter Newsagents on Patrick’s Street closed its doors yesterday after 46 years in operation.