Owners of the popular cafe made the announcement on their Facebook page on Friday, with the post attracting an outpouring of well wishes from people, most saddened by the upcoming move.

Co-owner of Milk & Honey cafe Liz Lewis said it was with mixed emotions that she began to pack up the cafe.

“We felt it was important to be honest and open about the fact we didn’t want to move,” she said. 

“We’re incredibly proud of the business, and the community, we built at Blowhole Point. We would have loved to have continued in that location, if we felt supported.”

Mrs Lewis said they had always wanted the cafe to be more than just a place to eat.

“We wanted to create a space filled with community spirit, where locals and tourist were made to feel special. And, I think we achieved that,” she said.

“Since we announced our move, the outpouring of love from customers has been overwhelming. We’ve had incredible thank you cards from regulars who now feel like family. People have said we’ve brought life and love to Blowhole Point – there’s no better compliment than that!”

Mrs Lewis said the diversity of people they had welcomed through the cafe’s doors had been a highlight of their time in business so far.

“I’ve heard people say, ‘of course you’re popular, because you get the tourists buses’, anyone who has spent time at Milk & Honey know our crowds go far beyond that.

“On an average weekday, our tables are full with the local crochet club, biker’s club, mother’s groups and the elderly.

“I have 30 employees and I encourage them all to take time to talk to customers, and go the extra mile. We’re proud of our menu, but even prouder of our warmth and hospitality.”

The catalyst for the move came when the five-year lease ran out on the premises at Blowhole Point.

“We didn’t expect preferential treatment just because we’re the current proprietors, but we did have high hopes because we have a popular, profitable business that employs a lot of local people,” Mrs Lewis said.

“However, it soon became clear we weren’t a high priority and our experience wasn’t being valued.

“The tender process was more stressful than I can explain and, after several rollercoaster weeks, we decided to begin looking for a new location – somewhere we could rebuild, even better than before.”

Loyal customer Amy Molloy was saddened by the news.

“A community cafe isn’t about prime location. It takes more than a view to build a business with heart,” she said.

“It’s a place where staff members are encouraged to talk to customers. Where every demographic of the community feels welcome, from bikers to knitters and mothers group.”

Mrs Molloy even visited the cafe while she was in the early stages of labour with both her children.

“There was one reason I went to Milk & Honey during my contractions – and it wasn’t just the chai tea!,” she said.

“With my family 15,000 miles away, I needed to feel safe, loved and supported. And, that’s what a business with heart does for everyone who visits it.

“To Mick, Liz and all the Milk & Honey crew – thank you, from every customer you’ve gone the extra mile for. A building is just four walls. Your love and passion is portable. You can’t put a price on that.”

Milk & Honey will re-open in a new location, which is yet to be disclosed.

“We’ll be experimenting with our menu, although ensuring it’s still very affordable,” Mrs Lewis said.

“We also have more flexibility with our opening hours, so perhaps we’ll be able to cater for night owls too! Most importantly, it will still be a family-friendly location where every age group is catered for and made to feel welcome.

“We’re sad to leave Blowhole Point, but we’re equally excited to open the doors of our new home. We won’t have ocean views, but there’s great things on our horizon!”