One Dublin pub that was opened in the summer when the first lockdown lifted is now unable to reopen its doors under the new lockdown food rule.
Clontarf boozer Harry Byrne's took to Facebook confirming the sad news to excited punters who were preparing to book tables in their droves in the bar on Friday.
Many pubs around Ireland had previously teamed up with local restaurants while others had been preparing meals elsewhere and bringing them in.
But food now has to be made on the premises with on-site kitchens and chefs necessary in order to qualify for the reopening status on December 4.
And in a heartbreaking statement last night, Harry Byrne's confirmed that they now do not fall under that bracket.
They said: It is with huge sadness that we have to let you all know that, regrettably, we are unable to celebrate Christmas in Harry's this year.
"This is the hardest thing we have ever had to post - Christmas is our favourite time of year here in Harry's and a time that we love celebrating with you all.
"We are all devastated by this blow as we were so looking forward to seeing you all back again for the Christmas season."
They added: "We have been so hard at work preparing to open up this weekend with all safety measures in place. But, due to the latest regulations being imposed on us in the pub trade, our pub does not meet the required criteria of having a kitchen 'inside'.
"We know you are as disappointed as we are, so please accept our heartfelt apologies, but unfortunately, it's out of our hands.
They concluded: "We are, however, still allowed to continue with our takeaway and delivery service. We would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for your continued support over the last few months and we hope to see you all again soon."
