Sad News for Sweet Tooths: O’Hara’s Bakery Cafe Closes Its Doors, At Least Temporarily
In the heart of downtown Lexington, a beloved bakery has announced a temporary closure that has left the community buzzing. O’Hara’s Bakery Cafe, situated at 121 E. Main St., has made the difficult decision to shut down operations, at least for the time being.
Community Announcement
On a serene Sunday afternoon, owner Matt O’Hara took to Facebook to inform loyal customers of the unexpected closure. In the post, he expressed a mix of disappointment and hope, stating, “Announcing the immediate (hopefully temporary) closure of the O’Hara’s Bakery Cafe.” He went on to say, “We are not giving up on the space or the prospect of finding a model that might work here, but we are going to cease operations under the current model.”
The last five years have seen O’Hara’s Bakery Cafe become a cherished spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a wonderful assortment of baked goods, desserts, and coffee. From gooey pastries to freshly brewed coffee, it was the go-to place for anyone with a sweet tooth or craving a cozy coffee break.
Changing Tides in the Bakery Business
Most recently, O’Hara’s Bakery had shifted its focus to a counter service model that featured a variety of bagels, showcasing the bakery’s adaptability in a ever-evolving culinary landscape. It’s worth noting that the bakery had earned a spot in The State’s list of essential restaurants in the Midlands, a testament to its quality offerings and community presence.
In his Facebook post, O’Hara promised to keep the community in the loop about any developments regarding the bakery’s future. “We will keep you posted here when any further decisions are made,” he noted, expressing gratitude to everyone who has supported the bakery over the years. However, he also made it clear that finding a new operational model is crucial before reopening.
The Heart of Downtown
Interestingly, O’Hara is not only the face behind the bakery; he is also part of the ownership team at O’Hara’s Public House, an Irish pub located just a few doors down at 131 E. Main St. Thankfully, the pub will continue to serve its patrons, providing a cozy gathering space for the community in the backdrop of this bakery closure.
The news of the closure sparked a wave of reactions on social media, with the Facebook post receiving over 600 reactions and more than 500 comments by Monday morning. This outpouring of support reflects just how much O’Hara’s Bakery Cafe meant to its customers and the community at large.
Community Vibe and Support
The bakery’s closure comes during a time when downtown Lexington has experienced a surge of growth, seeing a revitalization of restaurants and bars that have turned the area into a culinary hotspot. Alongside O’Hara’s, popular spots include Keg Cowboy, Bodhi Thai Dining, Groucho’s Deli, Barrio, Craft Axe Throwing, Bubba’s Biscuit, Libby’s, and Nicky’s Pizzeria, making the downtown area a lively and diverse place to dine.
Additionally, local shops like Craig Reagin Clothiers and Kindred Boutique contribute to the charming atmosphere of the streets, offering unique shopping experiences. The Icehouse Amphitheater has become a favorite venue for live performances, bringing entertainment to residents and visitors alike.
Despite this setback for O’Hara’s Bakery Cafe, the community’s spirit seems unbreakable. As we await further updates about the bakery’s future, let’s support our local businesses, keep the conversation alive, and maybe even send a few good vibes Matt’s way!
