Image credit: Eighty Eight Seafood and Grill
In a string of recent venue closures, popular seafood restaurant Eighty Eight Seafood and Grill has officially shut the doors to its Victor Harbor premises. The announcement came as a shock to locals, as the venue shut up shop effective immediately when a post revealed the sad news last Wednesday.
The social media post revealed that the news had been in the works for some time, but it had finally reached a point where the restaurant would have to close shop. Here’s what the post had to say:
“It is with a heavy heart that we reach out to you today. After many years of serving our loyal patrons, we have made the difficult decision to close the restaurant effective immediately. Unfortunately, the challenges facing the hospitality industry have led us to this extremely hard choice.”
“Navigating the challenges of operating as a fresh restaurant, combined with the difficulties brought on by COVID-19, has always been a tough endeavour, especially for a newer establishment.”
“Although the restaurant will be closed day to day, we are exploring a new direction where the venue may be available for functions and events in the future. We will make an announcement once the dust settles and plans are in place.”
“Thank you for your understanding and support throughout the years.”
The business cited rapidly rising fish prices as a main reason for closing, stating that operating as a restaurant was no longer viable.
Since opening the seafood shop Seafood Chest in 2007, the owners added Eighty Eight to their profile in 2019. Surviving covid was the first major challenge, but as rent, overheads, and fish prices have skyrocketed, like many other hospitality venues recently, staying open had become untenable.
“Since we opened Seafood Chest… we have formed close relationships and have cherished the moments shared with you, enjoying not only the venue but also the experiences we created together,” the social media post said.
Modern Australian hotspot Four Sides Bar, Les Deux Coqs, Landough’s Doughnut Shop, and Two-Bit Villains are all among the venues that have announced their closure recently.
Although the chapter of Eighty Eight Seafood and Grill has ended, Seafood Chest on Victor Harbor Road remains open. You can support this local favourite and purchase the freshest seafood SA has to offer seven days a week.
To stay up to date on all the latest from Eighty Eight Seafood and Grill and Seafood Chest, click here.
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