The planned closure of Bewley’s on Grafton Street will mean the loss of an “iconic part of Dublin”, according to Senator David Norris.
It has been confirmed that the café is set to close permanently in the coming weeks, with the loss of 110 jobs.
The café on Grafton Street opened in 1927, but has struggled financially in recent times.
The financial impact of the COVID-19 crisis and rents of €1.5 million per year are believed to have been factors in the owners' decision to close the café.
It comes only three years after the café reopened its doors following a multi-million euro refurbishment.
Speaking on Newstalk Breakfast, Senator David Norris says he has fond memories of the famous Grafton Street café.
He said: “Bewley’s was an iconic part of Dublin. James Joyce used to go and have coffee there, it’s recorded.
“I always remember the lovely smells - a rather distinctive Dublin smell… the coffee grinder in the window with the roasting coffee beans.
“I also wonder what will happen to the magnificent stained-glass windows that they have.”
In a statement, the management of Bewley's confirmed they had written to staff to inform them that it will likely soon be necessary to close the café permanently.
They said: "The management team will now enter into a period of consultation with the impacted employees.
"We would like to sincerely thank all of the staff who work in the business for their loyalty and dedication which has made Bewley’s Café on Grafton Street a landmark, iconic and memorable place to visit.
"We would also like to thank our loyal customers over the decades."
