A popular suburban restaurant in Perth will close its doors, with the owners confirming that rising rental costs spurred their decision to shut. The Dux Cafe & Restaurant in Como confirmed this week that they would be closing after two decades as part of the South Perth community.
Heartbreaking Announcement
The owners of the award-winning eatery shared an online statement announcing the news ahead of their closure on June 30. 'With a heavy heart, we are sorry to announce that our business has come to an end,' they wrote in the announcement shared to their Facebook and Instagram accounts. The owners added that the decision to close the venue was driven by a sudden increase in the building's rent.
'Unfortunately, as a small community-based business, we simply cannot afford the severely increased rent of 25 per cent from the new landlord,' they explained. 'It is heartbreaking that Dux ends with us after more than two decades of serving the community.' The last day of food service would be this coming weekend on Mother's Day, but will continue to sell coffee and other items until the end of next month.
Community Reaction
Locals in the Como and South Perth community were heartbroken by the unexpected news shared across Dux's social media channels. 'So sad to hear this. I have had many amazing experiences at your restaurant. Good luck for the future,' read one reply to the restaurant's announcement shared on Facebook. 'Oh, this is very sad news,' another woman agreed. 'Sorry to hear that,' another person chimed in. Another regular shared a heartfelt thank you to the team 'for the many enjoyable and hearty meals over the past two decades'. Several replies to the announcement wished the restaurant owners well in their next endeavours.
Final Days and Legacy
The restaurant owners went on to thank loyal patrons who had visited over the years, adding that they would 'cherish all of the adored memories' shared with the community. The closure announcement is a sad update for the once-acclaimed restaurant, which previously won a Gold Plate award for 'Best Breakfast in Perth metro area' from the Catering Institute of Australia in 2023.
Dux Café & Restaurant, located on South Terrace in Como, was renowned for its delightful menu that catered to breakfast enthusiasts and coffee lovers. Morning diners could enjoy their signature dishes like a variety of crepes, or the Dux Big Breakfast. Later in the day, their lunch menu featured comfort food favourites such as Satay Chicken Skewers, Wagyu Beef Burger or Seafood Risotto. Dux Café also enjoyed an impressive Google review rating of 4.6 stars, with recent diners praising the warm and attentive staff and delicious food. The most recent review from a regular patron heaped praise on the restaurant and its owners ahead of the impending closure. 'Food, ambience, staff - all big ticks. Wonderful experience each time,' they wrote. 'And very sad dining there today knowing it was the last time.'
