Cleaver East Shuts Doors Sunday After 12 Years
Beloved Temple Bar Eatery Ceases Operations Amidst Hotel Renovations
A decade-long culinary staple in Dublin’s Temple Bar district, Cleaver East, is set to close its doors this Sunday, August 3rd. The restaurant, renowned for its “bottomless brunch” and pioneering small-plate concept in Ireland, is ending its run after 12 years of operation.
Transition Amidst Hotel Overhaul
The closure coincides with extensive renovations planned for The Clarence Hotel, its long-time home. The hotel, formerly owned by music icons Bono and The Edge, along with Paddy McKillen Sr., was sold to Dean Hotel Group in October 2023. The planned upgrades aim to nearly triple the hotel’s bedroom capacity.
A Decade of Culinary Trendsetting
Owned by Michelin-starred chef and restaurateur Oliver Dunne, Cleaver East made a significant mark on the Irish dining scene. It was instrumental in popularizing the small plate dining style and introducing innovative concepts that influenced the industry.
“After 12 happy and memorable years in Temple Bar” the restaurant will close on August 3, Mr Dunne stated, expressing gratitude to patrons and his team for their unwavering loyalty and support.
—Oliver Dunne, Owner
Mr. Dunne confirmed that all Cleaver East staff have been successfully relocated within the Oliver Dunne Restaurant Group, ensuring continuity for his dedicated team.
“We want to thank you all for your hard work, passion and dedication. You’ve been the heart and soul of Cleaver East, creating countless memories for our guests and shaping the atmosphere that made this place so special.
“We are extremely happy and very grateful to be able to retain all of you, our amazing staff with not a single person left behind. All our Cleaver family have been relocated within the existing Oliver Dunne Restaurant Group and we are so, so lucky to continue this journey with you.”
—Oliver Dunne, Owner
Legacy Continues at Sister Venue
The restaurant’s signature “bottomless brunch,” described as a “Dublin institution,” will find a new home at its sister venue, Beef and Lobster, also located in Temple Bar. This ensures the continuation of the lively atmosphere and flowing cocktails associated with Cleaver East.
In 2023, Dublin saw over 2.5 million domestic overnight trips, highlighting the city’s vibrant tourism sector, according to Fáilte Ireland’s National Tourism Performance Report.
Mr. Dunne extended an invitation for patrons to join in celebrating the restaurant’s final weeks, encouraging them to enjoy its offerings one last time. Cleaver East will be open for dinner Wednesday through Sunday and for its popular weekend Bottomless Brunch up to and including its final day of operation, August 3rd.
