Tea Tree Plaza institution 42nd Street Cafe to close after three decades of service

A Tea Tree Plaza institution is set to close permanently in the new year after more than 35 years of serving customers.

A beloved Tea Tree Plaza institution will be closing its doors after more than 35 “wonderful” years of service.

42nd Street Cafe will permanently close its doors in January with the cafe taking to Facebook to share the sad news on Friday.

“It is with the deepest regret and sadness that we announce the permanent closure of 42nd Street Cafe Tea Tree Plaza after over 35 wonderful years of service,” they wrote.

“Our last day of operation will be the 11th of January 2025.

“This has been the hardest decision we’ve ever had to make, but unfortunately, we have no choice, as Westfield Shopping Center has decided not to renew our lease.”

They also expressed their gratitude “for every moment we’ve shared with our amazing customers and dedicated staff over the last three decades.”

42nd Street Cafe owners Mary and Peter Rogers serving customer Sonja Hosking in 1995. Picture: Neon Martin

“42nd Street Cafe has been more than just a place to dine; it has been a community — a place filled with laughter, friendships, and cherished memories,” they wrote.

“Your unwavering support, smiles, and loyalty have meant the world to us, and we will treasure these memories forever.

“Thank you for being part of our journey. Though our doors may close, the spirit of 42nd Street Cafe will always remain in our hearts.”

The announcement was met with disbelief from both customers and former employees who were heartbroken over the news.

“That’s so sad, 42nd Street Cafe holds lots of wonderful memories, we have had many wonderful meals with special family and friends, who have since passed,” one person said.

“Very sad to hear, I started my cheffing career there, 42nd street changed my life,” another said.

Newland MP Olivia Savvas spent "some of the best years of her life" working at 42nd Street Cafe. Picture: Facebook

She said its closure was devastating. Picture: Facebook

Among them was Newland MP Olivia Savvas, who spent “some of the best years of my life,” working at the cafe.

“I loved standing out the front, greeting customers and remembering their stories. So much about working there was more than just making coffee – it was community service,” she wrote on Facebook.

“I saw customers get married, and have babies. I went to customers’ funerals. I babysat their kids. I’ve watched little ones who used to order a ‘Fluffy’ milkshake and colour in our menus grow up and attend local schools.

“We were a home away from home for so many, and I loved the opportunity to build relationships with people and give back to the community I love.

“More than once I’ve had people tell me they voted for me because they got to know me at the cafe – a constant reminder of the privilege to be a long term Gully girl.

“We also had heaps of fun. We had dress up days and Christmas breakfasts and fundraisers. I look back on my time there as some of the best years of my life.

“I can’t imagine the Plaza without 42nd Street, and I’m pretty sad to see that after 35 years, it’ll be closing in January. Thanks 42nd Street. I’ll miss you.”