TonTon and Little Mussel Cafe latest venues to announce closure

Two local outlets have announced they will close their doors for the final time this weekend, following a similar announcement by an Ocean Grove outlet.

TonTon’s Arron Sheedy and Jemma Saunders.

Two local hospitality businesses have announced they will close their doors this weekend in the latest blow to the local dining scene.

The Little Mussel Cafe in Portarlington and TonTon in Highton both confirmed this Sunday will be their final day of trade.

TonTon owner Aaron Sheedy said a number of personal matters have led to him closing the business after less than two years at the Barrabool Rd site.

“Although it is quite a difficult financial climate to survive in, we were doing quite well,” he said.

“There’s just a new chapter of my life I am going down and sadly I have to say goodbye to this.”

Mr Sheedy said getting to know the community over the past 18 months was a highlight during his tenure.

“Building those relationships with them is something you can’t replace, I’ll cherish those forever,” he said.

TonTon cafe in Highton Village. Photo: Ryal Sormaz.

Mr Sheedy said a number of hospitality businesses were facing difficult economic challenges associated with the cost of living.

“All the overheads have increased, the cost of produce has increased, I guess everything has increased over the last year or so,” he said.

“It was never about money or anything, it was always a passion driven dream of mine.

“I’m walking away with my head held high, I’ve really made an impact on the community and really set the bar.

“It was an honour to do this, I really enjoyed every single second.”

Mr Sheedy also paid tribute to his former partner Jemma Saunders, who he could not have lived his dream without.

“She was behind the scenes the whole time, she worked tirelessly in the business, and I really appreciate her,” he said.

Little Mussel Cafe.

The Little Mussel Cafe, a seafood restaurant in Portarlington, has also announced that Sunday would be its last day.

“It has been a lovely adventure and we are all going to miss your smiling faces,” the business said in a social media post.

“This week will be the last week you can enjoy our wonderful food while admiring the best views in town and being looked after by fantastic friendly staff.”

Also closing this weekend is Ocean Grove restaurant Napona.

Owner Will Swinton said the phone started to immediately ring after he announced the closure.

“We’re full for our final services,” he said.

Originally published as TonTon and Little Mussel Cafe latest venues to announce closure