Ashbox Cafe has closed its doors in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The owner, Yoko Kubo, said worsening health condition contributed to her decision to close. She is hosting an inventory sale as a farewell to the community that supported the cafe.
Ashbox Cafe Closes in Greenpoint
Ashbox Cafe, a Japanese-inspired neighborhood cafe, has closed. The cafe was located at 1154 Manhattan Avenue in Greenpoint, Brooklyn. The closure brings an end to the 18-year journey of the one-woman-operated cafe in the community.
The owner, Yoko Kubo, shared the news on social media. The post confirms that the cafe has already stopped operations. She also announced an inventory sale running from August 25 through August 28, from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
The sale will feature the cafe’s remaining inventory. This includes plates, cups, and bowls from Kubo’s collection. It will also include packaged food and kitchen tools.
Ashbox Cafe was known for its healthy, homemade food and a personal, neighborhood feel. It was run as a one-woman operation by the owner, who prepared and served dishes herself. The menu changed frequently and included dishes such as Japanese onigiri, house-made tofu, tuna poke, and more.
According to a Hoodline report, Kubo said she operated the cafe entirely on her own with no additional kitchen or service staff. This one-woman operation had defined the cafe since its earlier days.
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Reason Behind the Closure
In the announcement, Kubo mentions her worsening battle with arthritis as the reason behind the closure. She said it was time to prioritize her health and focus on managing her condition.
“Serving you has never felt like work,” Kubo said in the emotional post. “It felt like taking care of friends and family. Thank you for making my dream a reality for nearly two decades.”
The closure ends Ashbox Cafe’s 18-year run in Greenpoint. The inventory sale will give customers a final opportunity to purchase items from the cafe before it closes.
