Alida Restaurant in Launceston has closed its doors after 10 years of service at the Penny Royal precinct on Bridge Road.
The restaurant served its final guests on August 9, bringing to an end a decade that began when the venue first opened as Penny Royal Wine Bar and Restaurant in 2016.
It traded under that name for five years before being renamed Alida in honour of owner Josef Chromy’s late wife.
The board of the business said the decision was made as Chromy, who holds an Order of Australia, approaches his 96th birthday and steps back from day-to-day involvement.
“This decision has not been made lightly,” a statement on the restaurant’s website said.
“As Joe approaches his 96th birthday and steps back from the day-to-day involvement in this part of the business, it is the right time for the next chapter of the venue and for the continued evolution of the Penny Royal precinct.”
Penny Royal is a tourism and hospitality precinct on the banks of the North Esk River, featuring attractions including the Penny Royal Adventures theme park, restaurants and bars.
A statement on the Penny Royal website confirmed the change.
“After careful consideration, the Board has made the decision to lease the restaurant premises to an existing hospitality operator within the community, with Alida Restaurant serving its final guests on Sunday, 9 August 2026,” it said.
The restaurant built a strong following over its decade of trade, attracting nearly 8,000 Facebook followers and a 4.3-star average from 518 Google reviews.
“We are also excited to welcome a new restaurant operator into the space and look forward to seeing their vision come to life,” the restaurant’s statement said.
“We would like to sincerely thank every guest who has dined with us, every couple who celebrated with us, every family who chose us for life’s milestones and every member of our team who helped make Alida what it is today.”
Brady’s Tavern at Penny Royal and Penny Royal Adventures will continue to operate as normal.
