An iconic Dublin coffee shop and landmark closed its doors last week amidst sadness from regulars and locals.
The Kiosk, located on the corner of Leeson Street and Adelaide Road, on a small traffic island has closed down after 38 years in business.
The ubiquitous coffee spot posted a notice on its window which read: “Sadly the kiosk has had to close.
“I wish to thank everyone for their custom and friendship over the past 38 years. Good luck to you all for the future.”
Owner Ned McCarthy said he tried hard to keep the business going despite increased competition from new coffee shops nearby, including Starbucks on Leeson Street.
Ned told Fora.ie: “I tried as far as I could to keep it going. A lot of competition has arrived nearby but I believe the right people can make it work.”
The building dates back to 1928 and according to Dublin.ie, it was designed by architect Michael Moynihan to house a water pressure station, public toilets, a telephone booth and a shop.
The Kiosk as it is now has been in the McCarthy family since 1954 but is currently being rented from Dublin City Council.
It is not known who the next tenant will be but Ned has said that there a number of interested parties.
The news comes following the take-over by Starbucks of another small kiosk in Ballsbridge earlier this year and the historic Avalon House on Aungier Street is also now home to the corporate giant.
Eoghan O’Riain, who lives nearby just off Adelaide Road told The Gazette that he is sad to see the Kiosk close and is worried that Dublin is starting to lose its character.
“It was a unique little spot to go for a coffee in, far more interesting than the usual Starbucks stuff which is just everywhere now. Hopefully the building will still be used.”
Others expressed their sadness at the closure on Twitter, with one comment reading: “Ah it was a little gem. Used to stop for my paper on way to work at the eye and ear hospital near 13 years ago. Sad.”
