Beloved east Melbourne local Seamus O’Toole Irish Pub is closing next week, having failed to reach an agreement with landlords, the Knox Ozone precinct.
The bawdy Seamus O’Toole, fondly known as ‘The Irish’, opened in the centre in 2002.
It has become famous for its well-patronised ‘industry’ nights on a Monday, its raucous weekend parties, and its menu, particularly its Melbourne-essential chicken parmigiana, and steaks.
Westfield Knox centre management confirmed the pub’s owners had confirmed the decision to close, likely on Sunday 2 June. PubTIC was unable to make contact prior to publication.
The two parties have reportedly discussed an alternate solution, centre management telling the Knox Leader they have agreed to explore continuing the relationship through “possible future partnerships within Knox and the broader Westfield portfolio”.
It is understood the pub’s owners sought a discount on rent, reported at $60k per month.
Knox Ozone has suffered several other tenants recently depart, such as Paesano Italian restaurant and Hush Bar.
Devoted Seamus patron Jackson Griffith has created The Last Goodbye event, so far attracting over 2,200 attendees.
“Come on down and say one last goodbye in a epic night out! GO HARD, OR GO HOME!”
