A POPULAR city centre café that starred in an ITV food show has closed its doors for good, leaving loyal customers “absolutely heartbroken”.
Cocoa Joe’s, located in York city centre, gained national attention in 2022 when it was featured in the early series of ITV’s Ainsley’s Good Mood Food.
Its appearance on national television only boosted its profile further[/caption]
The café showcased its rich, handcrafted hot chocolates and welcoming atmosphere, earning praise during the episode.
The programme, hosted by celebrity chef Ainsley Harriott, focuses on comfort food and uplifting recipes, with Cocoa Joe’s selected as one of the standout stops for sweet treats.
Speaking about the experience, co-owner Joe Andrew said: “It was a real honour to be selected to be involved.
“They could see how we are trying to do something really special here and enjoyed tasting the differences between our single origin chocolates and seeing how that carries through to create unique hot and iced chocolate drinks,” according to The Press.
But despite its popularity, the business has now shut down due to rising costs.
In a heartfelt post shared on Facebook, the team said: “We have had four brilliant years of serving our finest hot chocolate drinks to the lovely York community and to customers from all over the world, but sadly (and we are devastated about this) we are no longer able to stay open.
“Cocoa prices have more than trebled in three years and other costs have gone up well beyond the rate of inflation, leaving us in a situation where the business simply can’t keep going.”
They added: “This is not a decision that was made lightly, and we are incredibly grateful for all the support we have had over the past four years.
“We are also hugely appreciative of the amazing team who have delivered on our goal to provide an incredible customer experience.”
Cocoa Joe’s quickly became a firm favourite in York, drawing in both locals and tourists with its luxurious drinks and welcoming vibe.
Its appearance on national television only boosted its profile further.
But the shock closure has sparked a wave of messages online, with customers expressing their sadness and sharing fond memories of their visits.
Mandy Lotts wrote: “It’s sad to read that you’re affected by everything that’s going on.”
Jasmin Johnson added: “Absolutely heartbreaking. But thank you so much for the amazing drinks and service over the years.
“You have always been my first stop on every visit to York.”
Another loyal visitor, Paula Konefal, commented: “Oh what a shame. I have enjoyed my many visits.”
One customer said: “So sorry to hear this — thank you for all your hard work — visiting your shop was always one of our highlights when we were in York.”
Another wrote: “Very sad to hear this. You folks were my favourite place to get hot chocolate in York.”
While the York branch has shut, Cocoa Joe’s location in Pateley Bridge, North Yorkshire, will remain open for business.
Customers can find more details on their website.
The closure comes as small hospitality businesses across the country face mounting financial pressure.
Independent cafés and shops have been hit hard by soaring costs, from ingredients and energy bills to rent and wages.
According to Yorkshire Live, Cocoa Joe’s is one of several independent businesses in the city to shut or scale back recently.
Other closures include The Hairy Fig deli on Fossgate has closed, and Love Cheese on Gillygate has scaled back its services.
Many fear more closures could follow unless something changes.
Despite the challenges, customers are hoping Cocoa Joe’s might one day make a return.
What is happening to the hospitality industry?
By Laura McGuire, consumer reporter
MANY Food and drink chains have been struggling in recently as the cost of living has led to fewer people spending on eating out.
Businesses had been struggling to bounce back after the pandemic, only to be hit with soaring energy bills and inflation.
Multiple chains have been affected, resulting in big-name brands like Wetherspoons and Frankie & Benny’s closing branches.
Some chains have not survived, Byron Burger fell into administration last year, with owners saying it would result in the loss of over 200 jobs.
Pizza giant, Papa Johns is shutting down 43 of its stores soon.
Tasty, the owner of Wildwood, said it will shut sites as part of major restructuring plans
Many fear more closures could follow unless something changes[/caption]
