16/11/2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the permanent closure of Ikigai in Stirchley.
We have not made this decision lightly, however the past 12 months have been increasingly challenging for us as an independent venue, recently we have been opening just to make enough in order to pay rent on our lease. It’s not all about money, however given the current economic climate, we cannot sustain a business without covering costs - we have been unable to take a wage from the business for a long time, relying on a singular wage for a household is a struggle many of you are aware of, causing both financial and emotional strain.
Opening Ikigai was a dream come true, something that Luke had mentioned to Tallulah on their first date, seeing this dream become reality - with all the love and support from our families and friends - has been life changing. From Luke’s parents painting our first cosy site above 1000 Trades, family friends helping us with tiling, our friends talking through menu ideas with us and tasting awful versions of recipes in progress - we are eternally grateful to you.
This may not be the end of Ikigai forever but for now we say goodbye and thank you for allowing us to live our dream as a family for the past 4 and a bit years. It’s been a rollercoaster and although our emotions run high and are sad we couldn’t be with you longer, we have zero regrets and are happy that we have been able to traverse this journey with you all.
Big love always,
Luke, Tal and Ollie x
