Last sandwich made as popular Portlaoise family café closes down at Christmas
Work already underway by new owner of Laois deli
A long established Portlaoise family café has closed down after being sold, with refurbishment work already underway.
McCormack's Deli on Main Street had been feeding the town for 21 years but the owners, the McCormack family made the last sandwich and sold their final mince pie and scone just before Christmas on December 23.
"McCormacks Delicatessen & Cafe will cease trading on 23rd December after 21 years in business.
"What a journey it has been. We are very proud of our business and all we achieved here on Main St Portlaoise. We survived the recession, the pandemic and all the bumps along the way.
"It's thanks to all of you who continuously supported us throughout this time, some of you are coming into the shop since we opened. We are so grateful to you all. We will definitely miss all the banter and the stories from everyone over the counter.
"Of course none of this would be possible without our very loyal and hard working team. Thanks for your dedication and service over the years.
"We wish the new owner Achyut Gaire the very best of luck for the future.
"Merry Christmas to you all and all the best for 2024. Beata, Patricia, Geraldine, Joan, Adrian and Tony."
"Our sincere thanks to everyone for all the warm wishes on our departure from 83 Main St we are just overwhelmed by your kindness and are going to miss all of you. Wishing each and everyone of you a very happy Christmas and all the very best for 2024."
The business was advertised on the market some months ago as a going concern. It includes outdoor and indoor seating as well as a kitchen.
Many locals have wished the family and staff well.
"Tony and Team are outstanding people and have provided a stellar service for many years. May you have a fruitful future and best wishes to the new operators. Ian Devoy formerly of Humes Bar Portlaoise".
"Ahhh noooo you all will be greatly missed but most of all the fabulous array of fresh food & the lovely chats over the counter. Thank you for your kindness..like an extra 1 of your gorgeous scones or 2 in the bag Wishing you all the very best," said Linda Murphy.
"Don't rub out the blackboard yet I see my favourite is still on the board club sandwich behind ye. We are going to miss ye terrible, lovely food, friendly staff. Wishing ye a merry Christmas and all the best for 2024 tony Joan Adrian and staff it was a pleasure getting to know ye good luck with your new adventure," customer Sarah Buggie wrote.