Burger restaurant Downtown Brooklyn, which opened in Penrith eight years ago, will close permanently before the year is out.
The High Street eatery opened as Big Poppa’s Burger Bar in in 2016, emerging as one of the survivors of Penrith’s ‘burger wars’ which exploded over the next few years.
The often controversial restaurant will trade for the final time this Sunday, December 22.
“To our amazing burger lovers: thank you from the bottom of our hearts. Your support has meant everything to us, and you’ve been the reason we’ve kept going, even during the toughest times. You’re more than customers to us — you’re part of our DB family,” a statement on social media said.
“Your smiles, laughter, and loyalty have carried us through the years. You’ve celebrated milestones with us, stuck by us through the ups and downs, and made this little burger joint so much more than just a business. We are forever grateful for the love you’ve shown us and the memories we’ve shared together.”
The decision to close the business comes after the loss of James O’Shea, affectionately known as ‘Big Poppa’ and the patriarch of the family behind the business, in recent weeks.
Downtown Brooklyn operates out of the former White Swan restaurant site on High Street.
Its closure follows a string of hospitality losses in Penrith this year.
Troy Dodds
Troy Dodds is the Weekender's Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia's leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.