Mark Toney, a Newcastle institution for 134 years, has closed down. Both of its cafes in the city centre have been shut for weeks, and staff confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement on social media.
A 134-year history in Newcastle
The first Mark Toney opened in 1892 inside the Grainger Market, when Antonio Marcantonio brought Italian ice cream to the historic market from a tiny mountain village near Rome. The first cafe on Percy Street opened in the 1930s, before moving to its current location in the 1970s, a decade after the famous Grainger Street parlour opened.
Both existing premises on Grainger Street and Percy Street have been closed for business over the last month. The shutters stayed down on Grainger Street, and a notice appeared on the window of the Percy Street branch blaming an "electrical fault" for its prolonged closure.
Staff thank customers in farewell message
The announcement was made on social media in a statement penned by staff at Percy Street. It read: "To all our lovely customers, As we say goodbye, we just want to take a moment to thank every one of you for your support, kindness and loyalty. It's been a pleasure serving you, having a chat, sharing a smile and being part of so many people's days."
"Whether you popped in for a quick coffee, enjoyed a meal with family, met friends for a catch-up or simply stopped by to say hello, you have all been part of what made Mark Toney special to us."
The post added: "We'll miss seeing your familiar faces, hearing your stories and welcoming you through the doors. It's the people we've met along the way who have made our time here so memorable, and we're incredibly grateful for that. From all of us on the team, thank you for the memories, the laughs and the lovely moments we've shared. We'll look back on our time here with fondness and wish every one of you all the very best for the future."
ChronicleLive has contacted Mark Toney for comment but has yet to receive a response.
