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28th July 2025
12:56pm BST

A viral Dublin restaurant will close its doors less than a year into business.
Karen's Diner, known for its cheeky, theatrical concept, announced that they will close their doors permanently due to mounting financial pressures.
The TikTok sensation opened on O'Connell Street early last year.

Inspired by the Karen meme where waiters and waitresses take on rude attitudes and personas while dealing with customers.
In November last year, the restaurant rebranded to Karen’s Gone Wild, becoming an independently owned Irish restaurant.
Despite much talk and loyal customers around the restaurant, they confirmed on social media that they will shut their doors on August 3.
"After a wild ride, we’ve decided it’s time to shut our doors. Karen’s will officially close after Sunday, August 3rd," they wrote.
"So if you’ve ever wanted to experience the madness (or come back for round two), now’s your last chance. Like many independent spots, we’ve felt the pressure — VAT at 13.5%, rising costs, tight margins, and so much more.
"A huge thank you to everyone who supported us, shouted at us, laughed with us, and made this place what it was. It’s been unreal. Once again thank you for being part of it — we hope to see you one last time before we turn off the lights," they continued.
This closure adds to an ever-growing list of hospitality closures in both the city and nationwide.
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