It's no secret that the food and beverage industry has seen tough challenges over the recent years.

Communities have seen many restaurants and cafes come and go.

This time, a cafe serving up meals and culture has announced its sudden closure after almost a decade of serving Sydney's inner west.


Khamsa Eatery, a vibrant eatery, closed its doors after eight years of serving up a slice of the world through food.

Sara Shaweesh, Khamsa Eatery's owner, infused every dish with stories, traditions, and a taste of home.

Their hearty meals and desserts came from cherished family members' recipes.


More than just a cafe, Khamsa eatery doubled as a cultural hub that celebrated Middle Eastern heritage with events.

It was a place where the community could gather to support different causes, learn about traditional crafts, or come together to honour their shared history and culture.

Khamsa Eatery's sudden goodbye came after a dispute with the landlord over a proposed rent increase.


The eatery, which recently moved from Newtown to St Peter's in 2023, faced an insurmountable challenge when the landlord proposed a 50 per cent rent hike.

Despite the cafe's popularity, the financial pressures became too much to bear.

Negotiations fell through, and with a heavy heart, Shaweesh decided it was time to close the shop.

The announcement received an outpouring of support and sadness from loyal customers and community members.

'Well done on all you have created,' one patron wrote.

'Here's to all the magic you'll create in the near future.'

'I will miss you and your father so much, Sarah,' another patron's comment read.

'I will never forget how you gave food to people in need during lockdown and provided a space for me to eat delicious food with my dog, who has been my main support through challenging years.'


Khamsa Eatery's closure highlighted the broader issue small businesses face.

'Without meaningful government support, places like Khamsa are increasingly at risk,' Shaweesh wrote in a post.

'We hope this sparks conversations about the need to protect the diversity and identity that small businesses bring to our communities.'

While the cafe in Sydney may be closing, Shaweesh hinted at a new beginning.

After a well-deserved rest, a fresh project could be on the horizon as they moved to Melbourne.

As we bid farewell to Khamsa Eatery, we remember the importance of supporting the small businesses that enrich our lives in countless ways.

They're more than just shops and cafes—they are a key player in keeping communities alive.
We wish Khamsa Eatery all the best. In memory of the recently closed cafe, let's talk about our favourite restaurants and memories with them in the comments section below.