‘One of the best places I’ve eaten’, cry gutted customers as restaurant closes

AN award-winning restaurant with “amazing” food has confirmed that this summer will be the last before they close their doors.

Dé Róiste’s Bar and Restaurant in Co Tipperary admitted that they are among many in the same business who are “unable to keep going”.

Dé Róiste’s Smokehouse, known for its tasty barbecue menu, first opened its doors in summer of 2020 – during the midst of Covid.

Owner Dj Roche said at the time that he was focused on establishing a restaurant which met Covid-19 guidelines from the start.

However, after four years of the beloved grub being served up in the town of Ballinderry, Dj confirmed yesterday that the restaurant will be shutting its doors for the final time in just a few weeks.

Taking to social media to confirm the sad news, DJ admitted that the post was a “very hard one” to write, but “unfortunately the correct one”.

He said: “So after nearly four years of doing what they said couldn’t or even shouldn’t be done I’ve taken the decision that this will be the last summer of de Roistes.

“As everyone knows the last number of years have been the most difficult in the history for the hospitality industry and restaurant after restaurant have been unable to keep going.

“We took a concept and made it into a multiple award-winning restaurant against all odds so it is also a pride filled post.

“Of course I’d love to keep going with this adventure but without the help from banks lenders investors into the industry to allow diversification and expansion it’s a dead end (never know what the future holds).

“So from me to all current and past staff thank you guys for everything”.

Thanking the “loyal and brilliant” customers who have flocked to the popular spot since its opening, Dj said it has been a “pleasure” to serve them for the last four years.

The businessman also extended his thanks to his family and friends for their “backing and support” before urging all of his customers to use any vouchers they may have before the closure.

He did not confirm the exact date that the restaurant would close but added: “Always pints in elsies though and I’ll be continuing to search. Chat to u all soon.”

Many customers were left devastated by the news of the closure, with plenty rushing to the comments to extend their sorrows and best wishes for Dj in the future.

‘FOOD WAS ALWAYS AMAZING’

One said: “Very sad to hear Dj! Ye did a great job. Thanks for all the gigs, pints and the craic!”

Another added: “Very sorry to hear this DJ.. food was always amazing!! Best of luck going forward.”

A third described the popular spot as a “proper jewel” whilst another added: “I’m sorry to hear this DJ, a tough decision to make and devastating after all the work that has gone into the project.

“Hopefully you will have a great summer to go out on a high note.”

Another told how they won’t forget either the food or the hospitality whilst another praised the team for “giving it an almighty go”.

Another said: “Shocked and saddened to hear to this. Still one of the best places I’ve ever eaten. To yourself and Yvonne, thanks for all the chats and laughs and time spent with us when we were there.

“We loved every minute and ye are genuinely wonderful people. I hope that somewhere down the road it gets going again!”