Doors close at Kinghorn bar, Kirkcaldy venue shuts restaurant in rebrand
Two Fife venues have announced major changes.
The popular Ship Inn in Kinghorn has closed its doors, while Jock’s Bar & Grill in Kirkcaldy is re-branding as a rooftop bar after confirming its restaurant is to close.
The businesses’ updates came via their Facebook pages, underlining the challenges facing the hospitality sector.
The owners of the long-established Ship Inn said they had “done everything possible” to keep the doors open.
It said the need to carry out renovations to the building was a factor, and held out out hope of a re-opening, adding: “We have made the incredibly difficult decision to close our doors for now. We sincerely hope this isn't goodbye forever. Once the building is ship-shape again we'd love nothing more than to make a comeback.
“But for now, it's time to step away and regroup.”
They thanked everyone who had supported the business: “Whether you joined us for a cocktail, a glass of wine, a sharing board or simply wished us well, it meant more than you know. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for believing in us, supporting us and being part of this chapter. We truly hope we'll have the chance to welcome you back through our doors one day.” In Kirkcaldy, Jock’s Bar & Grill - which occupies the former Bar Itza on the corner of Charlotte Street, is closing its restaurant to focus on its bar which is being rebranded as Rossco’s Rooftop.
The business made the announcement after making the move from its previous premises across the road at the start of the year.
It described hospitality as “never ending hard work - relentless” and said this “won’t be the end for Jocks.” The first floor cocktail lounge will see the return of themed tapas nights and live entertainment, and also be open to private bookings.
The update added: “The bar side of things is going exceptionally well, so we will continue doing what we do here in the bar, but bigger and better. I’ll be adding tons of new cocktails, spritzes and other drinks to our next menu, which will go live in the end of September. We’ll have live entertainment every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and I’ll also be adding tons of daytime events for anyone who likes to get home early.
“The plan is also to focus more on private parties. No matter the occasion, we’ll accommodate you and custom-build your party to suit what you want. We have a great event space on the first floor, along with a beautiful roof terrace with sea views, and I’m really excited to make more of it.
“So yes, the restaurant side of Jocks is coming to an end, which is sad, but Jocks isn’t going anywhere. It’s just evolving.”