LOCALS in Cork have been left devastated after a much-loved business announced they are set to close their doors.
The Hunter’s Rest in Cork began the month of March by sharing their shock closure with fans.
In a post on social media, the company, located on the Main Street in Mitchelstown, shared the devastating news after years in business.
The owner of the business, Robert Mullally, shared that “after many years of a career in hospitality”, he is set to retire.
As a result, the popular pub will close on April 30, 2025.
In the heartfelt post on Facebook, he wrote: “After many years of a career in hospitality I am today announcing my decision to retire.
“To every customer who bought a dinner, a pint or even a bar of chocolate from me I sincerely thank you.
“To the staff who have worked with me both at present and in the past, my heartfelt thanks. I sincerely wish you the very best for now and in your future careers.”
He thanked those he worked with, adding: “To the local and regional food, beverages and drink suppliers who have worked alongside me, some of you for many years, it has been a fantastic business to business experience and my pleasure to work with, cook and showcase your products.
“To all other service providers and professions, a sincere and heartfelt thanks”.
He then shared a message of thanks to his parents, brother and sister for their support, as well as his extended family.
Speaking about the closure, he wrote: “The Hunter’s Rest will cease operations on Wednesday 30th April 2025.
“All occasion bookings already made within this timeframe will be honoured and catered for as well as new and additional bookings.
“All vouchers outstanding and within date can be redeemed as normal for food, beverages and drinks.”
He described it as a “remarkable experience” being able to work at home and abroad as a chef, saying he has “thoroughly enjoyed” the journey, along with the opportunities and challenges that came with it.
But most importantly, he said he was grateful for the people he met along the way.
He concluded the statement by saying: “It is however for me now time, and I look forward to the next chapter of my life with Jack and Eileen.
“Yours sincerely, Robert Mullally, The Hunter’s Rest”.
‘ALWAYS WONDERFUL’
Fans were left devastated by the news, sharing their thoughts in the comments section.
One person said: “I’ve so many happy memories of working, eating and (occasionally ) drinking in the hunters!
Another added: “Ah another end of an era in our little town., may you have the best time now for your retirement and do the things you never had time to do and take it easy, it’s just another phase of life opening up again.”
Another local wrote: “Will so miss going to your restaurant for sure.
“We enjoyed many great outings and delicious meals there. Service was always super efficient and top class. Variety of food was amazing and always wonderful.
“Thank you for all the hard work and hours put into it. Enjoy your well earned retirement and the next chapter.“
Local Cllr Peter O Donoghue added: “The Hunters Rest has been a fabulous restaurant as long as I can remember and will be greatly missed in the area.
“Well done Robert and thanks so much to you and all the wonderful staff at the Hunters Rest for providing so many years of fantastic food and service.
“The very best of luck to you, Jack and Eileen in this next chapter in your life.”
And one former employee commented: “To my first boss thank you for the great start you gave me in my life.
“Happy retirement rob you truly deserve it.”
