Shakespeare and Co: Not just a café, it was a community hub too

Dubai: The news of the closure of Shakespeare and Co., a popular café-restaurant chain in the UAE, has evoked an outpouring of emotions from more patrons, with some saying they sorely miss the “community hub”, with its shutting marking the end of an era.

Gulf News on Tuesday first reported about the homegrown chain shutting down operations last week at over 35 branches across the country.

While a comment from the company was not immediately available, several customers expressed sadness about the chain, established in 2001, closing all its Victorian-themed outlets with a menu and atmosphere that appealed to a broad segment of society. The marquee branches in some areas in Dubai were in the heart of the communities and were chosen by residents for their classy interiors and unfailing culinary fare.

The place to be

She said the one at Meadows Village was their favourite “as being within the community, it was ‘the place’ to take all our family and friends visiting us because it had such an elegant interior and served the best cakes.”

“Back in the day, there weren’t any cafés with a fine dining feel, and till today there is no match for its beautiful interiors, giving Bridgeton vibes…so for all our mums’ coffee mornings and brunches, it was The Place to Be. Their Mirabel cake was a must for all our celebrations. My children would definitely miss their scones and cookies.”

Old timer’s favourite

She recalled that she and her college friends used to save the date - and money to dine in there.

“Dubai at that time wasn’t inundated with cafes and restaurants. There were a few good ones and Shakespeare and Co. was definitely one of them. Not only did it pass the vibe check, it genuinely had delicious food. My favourite was and still is the Penne Arrabbiata and their tomato soup, laced heavily with garlic and ginger. I’m really sad to see them go especially because old residents like us are always looking for familiar places to visit in this city, which boasts an ever-changing landscape,” she said.

End of an era

The closure of Shakespeare and Co. signifies the end of an era, said Tony Farah, director of PR agency Clickon Group.

For Farah, the restaurant held a special place in his heart for many celebrations. “It was our favourite when it came to anniversary and birthday cakes. As we bid farewell to this beloved place, we carry with us the memories, flavours, and the sense of belonging that it offered. We will miss it dearly, but the legacy of Shakespeare and Co. will always remain in our hearts,” he added.

Seemingly shared identity

For Ananda Shakespeare, founder and CEO, Shakespeare Communications, the name of the café-restaurant chain itself was extremely relatable, though it was in no way connected to her.

Feeling of cosy romanticism

Mordani said the café-restaurant chain has a “special place in our hearts for being a home-grown concept.”