‘The end of an era’: Café and bistro business in Kildare town announces closure

A café and bistro business located in the Market Square region of Kildare town will close its doors next month.

Alex Armstrong, who runs Strong's Café and Bistro announced the closure yesterday (October 16 last) via a post on the business' official Facebook page.

Ms Armstrong said that it was "always" her dream to run a restaurant, and added that she established Strong's Café and Bistro back in 2018 at the age of 25.

However, now she feels that it is time to move on. 

She elaborated: "This hasn't been an easy decision; this is a hard one, and I can't believe I am actually writing this.

"It's just not sustainable anymore for us to keep our doors open for any longer, which is the reason why we will be closing."

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In addition, Ms Armstrong also said that she intends to "start a new chapter" in her life; one in which she puts her wellbeing first.

She explained: "It's time to actually not worry about anything or anyone else but me, and to just put myself first and do the things that I truly love. 

"If anything this has taught me that sometimes working 24 / 7 doesn't come first; making memories, enjoying your life, and most importantly, being happy are sometimes more important, rather than working 24 / 7, which is what I was doing for all those years when I really look back on it."

Furthermore, Ms Armstrong highlighted that the business will temporarily close from October 20, 2025 to October 30, 2025 for a break.

Lastly, Ms Armstrong expressed interest in the idea of someone else taking over the premise: "If anyone out there is interested in taking over Strong's Cafe, please don't hesitate to get in touch."

She added: "I would love to see the place still open and run by someone else."

Ms Armstrong concluded: "Thank you all again for your support over the seven years. I'm really gonna miss Strong's, Kildare town and every one of you; I guess this is just the end of an era. Take Care Everyone, Alex x."

Strong's Café and Bistro will officially close down on Sunday, November 16, 2025.

The full statement from Ms Armstrong can be viewed here.

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