Just over five weeks since we brought you the news that Prospect’s Cafe Komodo would close after 19 years, the venue has been saved.
On May 5, when the news of the closure was shared to the venue’s Instagram, the then-owners implored, “If there is anyone looking to take over Cafe Komodo, please get in contact because now is the time.” That’s exactly what Mel Millard and Amber Grosser did.
Millard and Grosser stepped in to buy the beloved community cafe and the venue will officially reopen on June 18. The pair are looking forward to getting back to their roots and getting behind the coffee machine.
“Komodo is a unique part of hospitality history – seeing it close would be utterly heartbreaking,” said Millard in a statement. “As a venue, it has all of our passions rolled into one: music, art, food and a laid-back comfortable vibe. The baton has been passed to us and we feel a responsibility to give back to an industry doing it tough.”
Komodo’s menu is much-loved and, although the pair are keen to add their own flair, locals can expect their favourites to still be on offer. “The community has told us they love the menu, so we’ll keep the favourites, for sure,” Millard confirmed.
The venue has been upgraded to include unisex toilets and a new kitchen. Millard added that “inclusivity is important to us, we’ll stay true to Komodo’s roots in making sure everyone feels welcome – even the puppies. We see it as a hub to come together and enjoy the good things in life.”
The move is a pleasing turn against the tide of bad news that’s been plaguing the Adelaide hospitality industry of late, with 10 venues (including the newly resurrected Komodo) having announced plans to close due to increased economic pressures and burn out.
Café Komodo will reopen on June 18 and operate Tuesday to Sunday from 9am to 4pm. There are plans to open on Friday and Saturday evenings in the future.
