Beloved Ipswich cafe ends beautiful chapter after almost nine years in business, hints at transformation

A much-loved Ipswich cafe, taking pride of place in the Top of Town has devastated its dedicated customers after announcing its shock change.

Rafter & Rose co-owners Elle Morar and Candy Gazdagh.

A beloved Ipswich cafe has shocked and devastated its loyal customers after announcing it will close a chapter this Friday, however hinted at a rebirth.

The ladies behind Rafter & Rose, taking pride of place at Top of Town on Ellensborough street have delighted locals for almost nine years with their incredible coffee, pastries and treats, with many of their fare catering to coeliacs and those with dietary requirements.

In an announcement on their Facebook and Instagram pages this week, owners Elle Morar and Candy Gazdagh expressed a deep love for the locals and visitors who made their business so successful and explained they would finish their final shifts at the cafe Friday.

“When we opened back in Jan 2015, someone said to us they hoped we'd last, to be honest, we had no idea if we would, but we were determined to give it our all,” they wrote.

“We found a community, you guys invited us into your lives, your families, and you certainly became part of ours.

“We all managed to get through the challenge of a worldwide pandemic, we watched your kids grow and ours have never known anything other than hospitality life. To say we’ve loved it would be an understatement.

“On October 23, 2023, after having served you, our loves, for 8 years, 9 months and 10 days we will hand the reigns over to someone whose heart is firmly rooted in this beautiful city.”

October 20 will be the cafe’s last day of operation and they have promised customers they will have their usual array of delicious treats available to celebrate the end of an era.

An outpouring of support flooded the post’s comment section.

“Oh wow! Sad and exciting. You guys truly are the best cafe in Ipswich. What a team and what an experience. Well done ladies,” one person wrote.

“You guys have created a stunning home away from home, for all to enjoy and be welcomed like family. We love and adore you all,” said another.

“You deserve the rest, so be easy on yourselves and be proud of the R & R family/community you’ve created.”