HUNDREDS of people have reacted to news Dome will close its Mindarie restaurant at the end of July.
The Perth franchise announced via Facebook on Monday that it would close the venue at The Marina, Mindarie on July 31.
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READ NOWDome managing director Nigel Oakey said the company hoped to secure a new site in the area soon and bring back the 25 part-time jobs that the current venue provided.
“We are looking for locations that offer more space,” he said.
“We explored opportunities to expand the site down at Mindarie; there wasn’t the lease space available at that same area.”
Mr Oakey said Dome’s operating model had changed since it opened about 12 years ago, with newer stores like Byford being a community hub with two levels, fire places, a library and meeting room.
Customers commented with memories and appreciation to Mindarie staff .
“Met our first friends there when we arrived in Aus. Always a good memory to have,” one woman said.
“We are devastated..are regular early morning customers..it is also so sad for such a great team ..the best place where we start our day..so so sad,” another said.
“It would have to be the bestest (sic) Dome around with a superb location..can’t understand the reason behind ..good luck to all the lovely people will be sadly missed.”
One man said he “always enjoyed the outside area of Dome overlooking the Marina with a gentle breeze and the shade of the NZ Christmas trees.
“I discovered it some years ago when I was looking for a cafe to take my elderly mum for a coffee,” he said.
“Thanks to all who made this a really great cafe.”
Dome Butler also said it was shame the Mindarie venue would close its doors, while reassuring customers it was a short drive away with views over a lake.
“We sincerely hope that all staff manage to find work elsewhere and may we wish them every success in doing so,” it said.
The Marina, Mindarie also posted that a new venture would open at the site in time for spring.
Operations director David Bornmann said marina management had been in discussions with Dome for a long time and had the franchise agreement on roll over since it expired last year.
“We’ve parted company with Dome; we’ve had a very good relationship with them,” he said.
Mr Bornmann said they were looking at refreshing the space and planned to open an Italian-themed restaurant in about September.
“It’s very popular as a breakfast-lunch space for regulars and locals,” he said.
“We’re adding a new style of food and something that’s also open for dinner; it will be great for families.”
The Marina, Mindarie already operates Indian Ocean Brewing Co, The Boat, The Pavilion and Cabana.
“It’s very exciting for us,” Mr Bornmann said.
“We’ve been quite successful with how we’ve operated The Boat and the Indi.”