Mark Toney, the ice cream parlour and café that has served Newcastle city centre for 134 years, has closed permanently, prompting a wave of tributes from customers. The business, which began as a stand in the Grainger Market in 1892, confirmed its closure late on Sunday via a statement from staff on social media.
Closure confirmed after temporary doubts
Doubts about the future of the Grainger Street branch, which opened in 1962, first emerged in the middle of last month when shutters remained down and a notice at the Percy Street café attributed the closure to an 'electrical fault.' What initially appeared to be a temporary closure was later confirmed as permanent.
In their statement, employees thanked customers, writing: 'It's been a pleasure serving you, having a chat, sharing a smile and being part of so many people's days.' They added: '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.'
Customers share memories and favourite treats
The appreciation from staff was echoed by many customers who had eaten at either Grainger Street or Percy Street over the years. A Facebook post about the closure on The Chronicle's page attracted close to 300 comments, with many expressing that the loss marks the end of an era for the city.
One reader responded: 'For any of the staff who may be reading this, thank you for years and years of fantastic memories. You were not just serving us food and drinks, you became like family to us and shared in all our birthday celebrations with our ice creams. We will truly miss you all.'
Many comments mentioned Mark Toney's 'unbeatable' French Salad sandwiches and Knickerbocker Glory ice cream. Another upset customer, who had visited for years with family, wrote: 'Can't believe its gone, their sandwiches and ice cream were amazing. Both my mam and my daughter loved to go there, along with me.'
A third comment read: 'Sorry to hear this, family throughout the years used to go in.,,,,… I wondered if they would give us the recipes for the French salad and cheese savoury sarnies……. coz' trying to replicating them is hopeless.'
