Jackie Lennox’s Takeaway on the Bandon Road in Cork has confirmed that it will shut its doors on October 6 – despite still ranking as one of the most popular fast food restaurants in Cork.
Famed as a cherished post match treat for generations of Cork sports fans, Lennox’s was also beloved of generations of students who lived along the Bandon Road and who attended both University College Cork (UCC) and Munster Technology University (MTU).
In a social media post, Frances and Brian Lennox confirmed the shock closure “with a heavy heart”.
Last orders will taken at the famous chipper on Friday.
“This may seem strange to make this decision when we are at our busiest, but time has creeped up on us and we are unable to cope with the burden of our success,” they posted.
Staff were informed of the closure on Monday – and tributes to the family-operated business have been paid by Cork politicians, business leaders and sports officials.
Lennox’s was closely associated with Cork sport from when it opened in 1951 and, over the years, became particularly synonymous with both the GAA and Cork soccer.
“From humble beginnings above a cobbler’s shop on the northside of the city, Eileen and John opened their present shop on the Bandon Road,” the firm posted.
“With the help of soccer legend and John’s teammate David Noonan and Eileen’s father, Con O’Callaghan, and her brother Sean (both GAA servants), the business became a huge success.”
The couple would go on to raise nine children – seven of whom were born above the shop.
“All of them worked at some point in the shop over the years,” it added.
“We would like to thank our local suppliers who have always given the best and freshest of their products.
“To our loyal co-workers, many of whom have been part of our family for many generations, it has been a privilege.
“To our loyal customers, thank you so much – you have been a delight to serve and will be part of us forever.
“Please remember us fondly and we hope that we have made in a small way a contribution to the culture of Cork.”
