Much‑loved Truro café Ost Eatery has shut up shop, with the owners blaming what they describe as a “broken” climate for small independent hospitality businesses.
The independent café and community hub , based at High Cross beside Truro Cathedral, confirmed the news today (Tuesday) in an emotional statement to customers, saying the decision had been “incredibly difficult”.
The business was run by Lou Rose, who had previously operated the Holy Moly street‑food brand and became known locally for community‑minded projects, including opening Ost’s doors on Christmas Day to serve free meals to people who were on their own or struggling financially.
“We are deeply saddened to share that Ost has now closed. We are absolutely gutted,” the business said in a statement posted on social media.
The owners set out a stark picture of the pressures they say have become unsustainable for small, independent venues, citing rising costs, an increase in rent this month and, what they described, as a lack of relief from Cornwall Council on business rates.
They said they had been paying the same level of business rates as national chains such as Costa and Starbucks, which they branded “absolutely bonkers as we’re a small independent”, adding that the “weight of VAT” had also taken its toll.
“The reality is that hospitality is facing an exceptionally tough climate,” the statement continued. “We will miss you all enormously, but the pressures on small independent hospitality businesses have simply become too great. It’s just broken.”
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Ost Eatery – whose name means “host” in Cornish – opened in June 2024 as a café and flexible social space led by Cornish produce and street‑food flavours, serving a short, seasonal menu alongside speciality coffee, cakes and a strong vegetarian and vegan offering.
The business occupied part of the Grade II‑listed former Assembly Rooms building at 13 High Cross and was conceived as a community‑focused venue, doubling as a workspace, meeting place and evening events hub.
It quickly gained a loyal following for its relaxed atmosphere and creative programme of Friday‑night guest chef events, while also becoming known for community‑minded initiatives. These included opening its doors on Christmas Day to provide free meals for people who were on their own or struggling financially.
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In their closure message, the team paid tribute to those who helped build Ost into more than just a café.
“Our wonderful & incredible team, every supplier who supported us, every guest chef who cooked up a storm on a Friday night and you – our loyal and lovely customers – together we created a community,” they said.
They also urged residents to continue supporting independent hospitality businesses across Cornwall.
“We wish everyone still working in hospitality the very best. Please continue to support your local independents as they need you now more than ever.”
Although Ost’s doors have now closed, the team hinted this may not be the end of the journey, signing off the statement with: “Thank you for being part of the journey & keep an eye out for what’s next…”
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