Another iconic Cape Town eatery is closing their doors amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Popular Hout Bay main road Greek restaurant Spiros is no longer.
In a Facebook post, owner Julie Ragavelas explains the decision to close comes after much financial strain, which was further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We have struggled over the last year and a half to keep our heads above water, and although we fought hard and with much passion to turn things around, the pandemic hit us at the worst possible time – just as we were turning the corner but too overextended to take the knock. We’ve lost everything and our doors will now be closed forever,” she writes.
Spiros has been a Main Road staple for 11 years. Ragavelas explains they opened the family restaurant with “zero capital, one guardian angel and a huge amount of belief.”
Over the years, they have built so many fond memories with the Hout Bay community.
“How can one even begin to do justice to all the memories we’ve accumulated during those years, all the families that became dear friends. We have been privy to and have joyfully shared in your celebrations. We’ve watched your children grow up alongside ours and have walked this amazing journey with our wonderful staff.”
While they have not been able to completely remunerate their staff for their dedication and service, Ragavelas is committed to doing so.
Ragavelas thanks all patrons who have supported Spiros over the years, and hopes people have memories as happy as her own.
“Thank you Hout Bay for your support and love during the last decade. We only ask that you remember us fondly and with love. That you smile when you recall Spiros awful pole dancing skills and the satisfaction you got from breaking a celebration plate.
“We wish we could mention every single one of you, especially our beloved regulars, but you know who you are and how much you will always be in our hearts. Please remember we always tried our best even if we messed up, and we always gave as much as we possibly could back to the community. It has been an honour and a privilege, and we thank and love you all.”
Fans of the restaurant are pouring in with their sad messages of support.
“I am so sad that you guys have closed. I have so many memories of our annual Halloween parties there, we had such fun and of course Spiro did his pole dancing as did many others who probably should not have lol. We have shared family birthdays and other celebrations with you all at your venue. I wish you all the best in your next adventure. Much love from our family to yours,” writes one Facebook user.
“This breaks my heart – honestly – and with a torn heart – I bid Spiro farewell….It’s been an institution of Hout Bay…… for so long – and I’m sure everyone in HB has a memory of your restaurant….my kids grew up there ….. so many, many happy memories….. No man….. this can’t be – it just can’t!!! The memories will last a lifetime – and there will always be “Lake Spiros” to drive through,” writes another.
Picture: Facebook / Spiros
