‘Heartbroken’: Famous Bondi bar shuts doors after 12 years

In the post, the owners blamed COVID-19, the ongoing cost of living crisis and a steady spike in alcohol and food costs for their “devastating” decision to close.

“Like many in hospitality, we’ve faced our share of challenges – navigating the impact of COVID, rising costs of living, and increasing prices of food, alcohol, utilities and rent,” the message reads.

“Combined with a demolition clause in our lease affecting long-term viability, we’ve made the difficult and devastating decision to close our doors.”

The owners said the closure comes with a “mental toll” and a lot of “heartbreak”.

“It’s certainly not how we wanted it to end,” the message continued.

“To our incredible community: thank you for your support, your smiles, and always bringing the vibe. 

“The love and connection you brought into our space will stay with us forever.”

The Bondi venue was bought in 2010 by Applejack Hospitality founders Ben Carroll and Hamish Watts.’

Applejack sold the bar in 2018 but continued to trade as normal under new ownership.

The duo converted the former hardware shop into a cocktail bar serving food and drinks only a stone’s throw from Sydney’s Bondi Beach.

Over the years, Bondi Hardware has hosted bottomless brunches, live music, Sunday roasts and a few weddings.

Plenty of Bondi residents took to the Instagram post to mourn the loss of their local bar.

“So sorry to see it go, 1000s of amazing memories. Thank you for creating a wonderful space for us all to come to over the years,” one person said.

“I’m heartbroken. Thanks for being my family overseas and being such a great place to work and be in. I will love you forever Bondi hardware!” another added.