Inside the final chapter of Cork’s Quay Co-Op restaurant and the movement it created

As the restaurant closes, the story of how the Quay Co-Op fed Cork’s counterculture and conscience comes into focus

Donal O’Gara and Virginia O’Gara of My Goodness are joined by chef Dan as they look out from the first-floor window of the Quay Co-Op restaurant in Cork city, ahead of taking on permanent stewardship of the restaurant space. Picture Chani Anderson

John Calnan has concerns. Before Christmas, an Irish Examiner article revealed the Quay Co-Op restaurant was closing after over 40-plus years. Both headline and article were crystal clear that it was solely the restaurant — the flagship health food store and bookshop on Sullivan’s Quay, in Cork, and its sibling outlets in Ballincollig and Carrigaline, would remain, under the aegis of its co-operative of members.

But such is the heartfelt attachment in Cork and further afield, fine detail was apparently obscured by emotional response, and the Co-Op was overwhelmed by calls and messages from distraught patrons and supporters. John is worried lest there be a repeat performance.