‘Too good to be true’: Reason behind Bondi Icebergs’ cafe’s abrupt closure
Customers have been left “devastated” by the news that the cafe at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Icebergs has closed for good.
Customers have been left shocked by the news the Crabbe Hole cafe at Sydney’s iconic Bondi Icebergs had suddenly shut.
The 17-year-old venue, which overlooks what’s frequently dubbed the “most photographed pool in the world” and was owned and run by local actor Andrew Crabbe, announced its abrupt closure in an Instagram post on Thursday.
“End of an era folks. Thanks for coming for the last 17 years. It’s been a pleasure serving you all,” the caption read, alongside a photo of the famed swimming spot.
News.com.au has contacted Mr Crabbe for comment.
The closure has been largely attributed to some customers using the cafe to gain free access to the oceanside pool, The Sydney Morning Herald reports.
While patrons not intending to swim were previously allowed through the turnstiles without forking out the $10 pool entry fee, that policy changed earlier this year after word of the “loophole” spread on social media.
“We had mothers turning up with their kids in floaties saying they were just there for a coffee,” Bondi Icebergs Winter Swimming Club general manager, Bob Tate, told The Herald.
“It became common knowledge you could get in for free.”
The club, which controls the site, will open The 9th Lane Cafe today in its place instead, and has extended job offers to the Crabbe Hole’s staff.
Regulars mourned the loss of the Crabbe Hole in the post’s comments, describing it as the “best coffee with a view in Sydney”.
“This is devastating news, you will be sorely missed,” one wrote.
“So sorry to hear this. Your place was an absolute gem. Affordable, excellent food and coffee in a stunning location,” another said.
“Clearly too good to be true. I was worried how you would survive once the pool admission rules changed. It certainly was a deterrent to me visiting.
“Bondi life will not be the same without The Crabbe Hole,” a third commented.
Mr Tate said there are currently no plans to allow free entry again, but the venue was exploring affordable options such as poolside-only memberships for people who might like to drink a coffee without taking a dip.