Chef Dylan McGrath has announced the closure of two of his renowned Dublin restaurants, Brasserie Sixty6 and Rustic Stone. The decision, effective from August 15, 2024, comes amid ongoing challenges within the hospitality industry, particularly the rising costs and economic pressures that have made it difficult to sustain operations.
McGrath Shares to Social Media
In messages shared on the social media pages of both restaurants, McGrath explained that while both establishments had been successful—Brasserie Sixty6 for 25 years and Rustic Stone for 15 years—the time had come to close their doors due to the unsustainability of the current hospitality environment. He emphasised the difficulties that stand alone restaurant models are facing and expressed gratitude to customers, suppliers, and staff who had supported the restaurants over the years. The notice also reassured patrons that any existing bookings would be handled by the events team, with efforts made to accommodate these at McGrath’s remaining venue, Fade Street Social.
Broader Issues in the Restaurant Business in Ireland
The closures highlight broader issues within the sector. Last year, the companies behind these restaurants had already gone through the Small Companies Administration Process (SCARP) due to significant debts accrued during the Covid-19 pandemic. Despite successfully emerging from this process, the sustained economic pressures have ultimately led to the closure decision.
VAT Rate Increase
This move aligns with recent concerns raised by the Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI), which reported that 577 food-led businesses have closed since a VAT rate increase last September, with many operators citing the unsustainable financial burden as the primary reason. McGrath’s decision reflects the broader trend of restaurant closures and the evolving landscape of the hospitality industry in Dublin. His focus will now shift entirely to Fade Street Social, where he plans to continue delivering high-quality dining experiences in a more sustainable business model.
