'Impossible for us to continue': Adelaide takeaway icon closes doors after 73 years

The North Adelaide Burger Bar, founded in 1951, has seen multiple generations through its doors, but the current financial pinch has proven too much.

“After 73 wonderful years serving our community, we will not be renewing our lease and will cease operations as of Monday,” the team wrote on the restaurant’s Facebook page on the weekend.

“Unfortunately, the current financial climate, rising costs of running the business, and increased utility expenses have made it impossible for us to continue.”

The restaurant first opened its doors in 1951, and has been operated by the most recent owners since 2005.

“Long before late-night food stores became a common sight in Adelaide, we were here, providing delicious meals and unforgettable memories,” the team wrote.

The restaurant, also dubbed the “Red and White”, claims to be the home of the “original AB meal”, which has been contested by fellow claimant, the Blue and White Cafe, located nearby.

An AB meal – the South Australian name for what the rest of Australia has come to know as a halal snack pack – consists of gyros meat heaped over hot chips and topped with barbecue, chili, tomato and garlic sauces.

The restaurant’s closure is one of a string of recent shutdowns in the industry.