‘This has been an extremely difficult decision. The reality is that running a small business in Ireland has become tougher than ever’
French Tacos in The Fifth Quarter shopping centre(Image: Chloe Barrett)
The owners of a much-loved Cork city food spot have thanked their ‘amazing’ customers as they confirmed they’re closing their doors for good.
French Tacos, located in The Fifth Quarter shopping centre on Paul Street, is shutting down. Taking to social media, owners Sid and Abdou said the move did not come lightly, but the cost of running a small business in Ireland made it ‘impossible’ for them to continue operating.
The owners began with a food truck in Limerick before expanding to Cork city, where they took over the vacant unit of the recently closed Prime Cafe. The French Tacos menu featured a variety of fried treats, including goujons, mozzarella sticks, onion rings, and their signature tacos and bowls.
In a heartfelt post online, Sid and Abdou wrote: “With a very heavy heart, we’re announcing that our French Tacos shop in Cork City is closing. This has been an extremely difficult decision. The reality is that running a small business in Ireland has become tougher than ever.
“Rising costs of supplies, higher VAT, increased wages, energy bills, rent, and overall inflation have made it impossible for us to continue operating the way we always wanted. Many small businesses across Ireland are struggling, and sadly, we’ve become one of them.”
The owner duo also offered a heartfelt thanks to their customers, family and friends, saying: “To all our amazing customers: thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your support, your smiles, your kind words, and your love for our food meant the world to us. Every visit, every order, every message — we truly appreciate it.
“To our friends, and family: thank you for standing by us through every high and low. We’re forever grateful. We’re closing this chapter with sadness, but also with huge pride and deep gratitude. Merci à tous Sid & Abdou”.
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There was no shortage of support in the comments from customers and fellow business owners alike, with one writing: “So sad to see French Tacos closing. You brought something unique and fun to the food scene. Wishing the entire team the very best in whatever comes next. Thank you for the good food and great vibes.”
Another said: “It’s so sad to hear that! We’re losing our only delicious food spot in Cork, and the only restaurant with authentic Algerian flavour”.
However, it’s not all sad news; elsewhere in The Fifth Quarter, a brand-new, stylish shop and café has opened its doors this week.
Urban Pantry is described as a premium place for artisan grab-and-go food, with an emphasis on convenience and local, high-quality produce. Everything sold in the shop is supplied by Cork businesses, with fresh, ready-made meals delivered daily.