Images: The Loose Caboose
An Adelaide cafe has closed the doors to its iconic North Adelaide venue after thirteen years in business.
The Loose Caboose has been a suburban favourite over the last decade, known for being one of the city’s most unique dining destinations. The Loose Caboose was founded by owner Katie, who brought the business to life back in 2012. Taking place in one of Australia’s oldest railway stations, which Katie spent two years restoring and transforming, it quickly became a favourite spot for all-day brunches, smoothies, juices, and coffee.
This Hindmarsh-based gem announced its closure with a post shared to social media on July 26th.
“After 13 beautiful years of coffee, chaos, brunches, birthdays, and memories — we’ll be closing our doors permanently after Sunday service,” they wrote.
“We’re so grateful for every single one of you who supported us, laughed with us, cried with us, and caffeinated with us.”
Katie followed this with a heartfelt post on July 27th, after they’d officially shut up shop.
“13 years ago, I opened the doors of The Loose Caboose for our very first service — and today, I closed them for the very last time. Fittingly, our final customers were Trisha & John, and I honestly couldn’t have asked for a more perfect way to close this little railway station chapter. Thank you both for being part of our last moment.
“When I bought this old station in 2010, I had no idea how much it would come to mean to me — or how many people would become like family along the way. It’s been more than a café. It’s been a home, a heartbeat, and a beautiful part of so many lives, including mine.”
She thanked the hardworking team behind the cafe, Head Chef Luke and the friends and customers who came in over the years. She shared that after sitting quietly for more than thirty years, bringing the station back to life was a dream come true.
Throughout her time owning The Loose Caboose, Katie also expanded into other ventures like opening Crack Kitchen on Franklin Street in 2015, which she sold in 2017. She also owned Whipped Bake Bar Cafe, which she sold in 2014.
It’s fair to say that Katie has a knack for opening venues designed for just what the community needs, and although one door is shutting, we’re sure another will open, and we’re excited to see what Katie does next.
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