Jetty Road institution Cardone’s announces closure due to rising business costs and pandemic

A Jetty Rd institution is the latest hospitality venue to announce its closure, with its owners blaming the pandemic and rising business costs.

Jetty Rd institution Cardone’s is the latest hospitality venue to announce its closure, with its owners saying the long lasting impact of the pandemic combined with rising business costs led to the “heartbreaking” decision.

The operators of the restaurant shared the news on social media, revealing their last day of trade will be Wednesday, March 6.

It comes as Strathalbyn cafe Hammer N Tongs announces it is going into liquidation owing $400,000.

“It is with profound sadness & disbelief that we announce that our beautiful little restaurant Cardone’s is closing its doors,” they wrote.

“It is incredibly hard to find the words …. Cardone’s has been a huge part of the Glenelg landscape for such a long time.

Cardone's restaurant on Jetty Road announced its closure via social media. Picture: Facebook.

“We are extremely proud of what our little restaurant has achieved over the years.”

The owners said the business had “never completely recovered” from the pandemic and growing operational costs had taken its toll.

“Since the pandemic business has been very tough and we have never completely recovered….” they wrote.

“The cost of living, interest rate increases, a significant rise in operational/produce/beverage costs & inconsistent trade patterns have all contributed to this heartbreaking decision.

“We want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all our incredible & loyal customers whom we have loved getting to know over the years.

“It has been our absolute pleasure to serve you all & something we will miss dearly.”

Launched by Nick Cardone in 2012 as Cardone’s Seafood and Grill, the venue was previously called Jack’s Fish Shack.

Mr Cardone had run Jack’s for over a decade, first as manager and then for six years as owner.

Customers flooded the Facebook post with comments, saying they are devastated by the eatery’s closure.

Heath Farnden wrote: “Gutted and sorry to hear this. Cardone’s is a mecca of amazing food and service. Enjoyed every meal there, and every moment of interaction with Nick and the staff. All the very best with whatever awaits, for all.”

Jacqui Fitzgibbons said she was “heartbroken” by the sad news.

“Your incredible hospitality and outstanding food will be truly missed,” she wrote.

“The best chefs and best team, thank you for the friendship, wonderful memories over the many years and welcoming us like family – ️ always a dining experience like no other.”

The owners said the business had “never completely recovered” from the pandemic and growing operational costs had taken its toll. Picture: Nigel Parsons

Launched by Nick Cardone in 2012 as Cardone’s Seafood and Grill, the venue was previously called Jack’s Fish Shack. Picture: Nigel Parsons

Cardone’s is the latest in a long line of Adelaide hospitality venues to announce they are closing their doors as the cost of living crisis and increased business costs take their toll.

Among the venues pulling the pin in recent months include long-running nightspots Enigma,Red Square,Fat Controller,1000 Island,Hades Hula House and Super California, eateries such as Gouger St’s Super Bueno, cult Hills pizza restaurant Lost In A Forest,Enzo’s Ristorante in Hindmarsh, Folklore Cafe in Port Adelaide, Morris Bakery on the Limestone Coast and one of Adelaide’s oldest pubs, The Edinburgh Castle on Currie St.