A beloved restaurant in Perth's southern suburbs is set to close its doors next month after serving the community for more than two decades. Dux Cafe & Restaurant, located on South Terrace in Como, has been a popular breakfast and lunch destination for locals.
Closure Announcement
The owners of Dux shared the heartbreaking news in an online statement on Sunday, citing financial pressures from a sudden rent increase. "With a heavy heart, we are sorry to announce that our business has come to an end," they wrote. The decision was driven by a 25% rent hike imposed by the new landlord, which the small community-based business could not afford.
"It is heartbreaking that Dux ends with us after more than two decades of serving the community," the owners added.
Award-Winning Establishment
Dux was renowned for its bottomless brunches and modern international lunch dishes, describing itself as "a place where food, wine and friendship come together." In 2023, it won a Gold Plate award for 'Best Breakfast in Perth metro area' from the Catering Institute of Australia.
Timeline of Closure
The restaurant will close its kitchen to the public on Sunday, following the Mother's Day rush. However, it will continue operating as a cafe for several weeks, selling coffee until its doors officially shut at the end of June.
Community Reaction
Members of the Como and South Perth communities expressed their heartbreak over the announcement. "Such sad news for the community," one local lamented, while another patron recalled "many enjoyable meals served over the past two decades."
Trend of Closures
Dux's closure follows a string of restaurant shutdowns across Perth. Popular burger joint Upperhand Burgers closed in Swanbourne on the same day, and Fremantle's Young George bar and restaurant shut its doors in April after a "difficult few years." Wellington Street restaurant Fleur also closed after six years.
PerthNow has reached out to the owners of Dux for further comment.
