WATCH End of an Era as The Golden Grill to Close After 60 Years in Limerick

Limerick’s The Golden Grill, will close its doors for the final time bringing an end to six decades of serving generations of customers in the heart of the city. Pictured above is owner Diana Nardone.

Limerick’s The Golden Grill will close bringing an end to six decades of serving generations of customers in the heart of the city

One of Limerick’s most beloved food institutions, The Golden Grill Restaurant, will close its doors for the final time on Saturday, June 20, 2026, bringing an end to six decades of serving generations of customers in the heart of the city.

Limerick’s The Golden Grill was established in 1966 on William Street, the family-run restaurant became a cherished part of Limerick life. For many locals, a visit to Golden Grill was a childhood tradition — whether it was an after-school treat, a stop after Christmas shopping, or a late-night meal after a night out.

Operated by the same family for three generations, the restaurant proudly carried the slogan, “Fish and Chips Like Papa Used to Make,” reflecting its Italian family heritage and commitment to traditional recipes. Around its 50th anniversary, the premises underwent a major refurbishment, blending modern touches with elements of its Italian roots and an American diner-inspired aesthetic while preserving the character that loyal customers had come to love.

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

advertisement
advertisement

Announcing the closure on social media, Diana Nardone, owner of The Golden Grill team said the decision had not been made lightly saying, “It is with a mix of sadness and deep gratitude that after 60 years, we have made the difficult decision to take a step back due to health-related issues and an increasingly challenging hospitality sector,” the statement read.

The family reflected on the restaurant’s humble beginnings, describing how what started as “a small and simple dream to serve the people of Limerick a plate of happiness, a place of comfort, of conversation and laughter” grew into six decades of memories and community connection.

The announcement sparked an outpouring of emotion from customers, many of whom shared fond memories of visits stretching back to childhood.

Customer Mark Joseph Barry on Facebook, recalled his first experiences at the restaurant, describing it as “always magical,” particularly through the eyes of a young child. He remembered stopping in for a “sneaky bag” of chips before catching the bus home and praised the Golden Grill for serving the best fish and chips he had ever tasted in Limerick.

Caroline O’Driscoll shared memories of Christmas shopping trips in the 1980s, when a takeaway bag of chips from the Golden Grill was an essential part of the journey home. She praised the restaurant’s chips and its signature balance of salt and vinegar

Another customer, Siobhan O’Brien, remembered her mother’s ritual of visiting the restaurant after every shopping trip to Roches Stores. She recalled how her mother would sit in the same row of seats each time, enjoying a coffee while chatting with staff and fellow customers.

In their farewell message, the family thanked customers, suppliers, friends, and staff for their unwavering support over the years.

“These 60 years have given us fond memories of late nights and friendships we will treasure always,” they said. “We are so proud to have gotten this far. This has been an incredibly difficult decision, but it is the right time.”

The statement also reflected on the countless moments shared within the restaurant’s walls, from celebrations and laughter to watching generations of family members grow up.

“To each and every one of our customers, we want to sincerely thank you for your loyalty and support. It has been an absolute privilege to serve you throughout all these years,” the team said. “We have fond memories of handing out bags of chunky chips lathered in enough salt and vinegar to singe your sinuses.”

The closure of The Golden Grill marks the end of an era for Limerick’s dining scene. While the restaurant may be serving its last portion of fish and chips this weekend, its place in the memories of generations of Limerick families is certain to endure./