The popular falafel and vegetarian restaurant The Gourmet Offensive has closed down due to the pandemic, and ongoing economic pressure.
The Gourmet Offensive, which was named the best vegetarian takeaway in Ireland in 2019, closed the doors of their Mary Street restaurant last Friday.
TGO was founded by Floris Wagemakers, known around town as Flo or Mr Falafel, based on the concept of quick and tasty vegetarian food made with locally sourced ingredients.
The restaurant announced on social media last week that the effects of the past and half years, and the ongoing economic issues, have been more than they could handle for now,
“After much soul searching and deliberation we’ve come to the conclusion that it is time for us to end this chapter and start something new.”
“This was not an easy decision to make, like many small independent family businesses, we have faced unimaginable challenges over the past two and a half years.”
“The current economic climate and supply issues are against us, and the ongoing extensive renovations of our premises are forcing us into a position where we can no longer provide the service and passion for plant based food that we care so deeply about.”
The Gourmet Offensive started trading at the St Nicholas’ Market in 2005 with the falafel stall, and expanded to trade nationally at many of Ireland’s largest music festivals like Electric Picnic.
In 2015, they moved to their premises on Mary Street, where they have delighted customers in the years since,
However, not all is lost for those who’ve savoured their plant based food, as TGO have pledged that they will be back, albeit in a different form.
“We will be taking the month of August off to reconnect with our family and nature, and we look forward to announcing our new project in the very near future.”
In the meantime, that delicious food they offer will still be available through their stall in the St. Nicholas Market.
“Falafel, not chicken, arancini and of course, our chips will still be available in the @stnicolasmarket at the weekends.”
“We would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to all of our loyal customers and staff, current and past, for making the place what it is.”
