A popular café in the heart of York has shut for good tonight (Sunday).
Cocoa Joe’s on Museum Street announced the news, saying “the business simply can’t keep going”.
The cafe, which specialised in hot and cold drinks using chocolate from all around the world, had been open for four years.
The business is run by University of York graduate Joe Andrew. It has another venue in Pateley Bridge, which is staying open as “overheads are much lower there”.
News of the York branch’s closure was posted on its door, and on Facebook with a graphic saying “Due to many circumstances beyond our control, Cocoa Joe’s York will be closed permanently from Sunday, 1st June 2025.”
In a statement the business said: “We have had four brilliant years of serving our finest hot chocolate drinks to the lovely York community and to customers from all over the world, but sadly (and we are devastated about this) we are no longer able to stay open.
“Cocoa prices have more than trebled in three years and other costs have gone up well beyond the rate of inflation, leaving us in a situation where the business simply can’t keep going.
“This is not a decision that was made lightly, and we are incredibly grateful for all the support we have had over the past four years.
“We are also hugely appreciative of the amazing team who have delivered on our goal to provide an incredible customer experience over the past four years.”
Cocoa Joe’s was rated number two out of 115 coffee and tea spots in York on TripAdvisor.
In 2022, the café featured on ITV show Ainsley’s Good Mood Food. Joe said at the time: “It was a real honour to be selected to be involved.
“They could see how we are trying to do something really special here and enjoyed tasting the differences between our single origin chocolates and seeing how that carries through to create unique hot and iced chocolate drinks.”
Customers reacted with dismay at news of the closure. “So sad to hear this, we’ve had many trips to the York store, and have loved it every time,” one wrote.
“The team there have been brilliant. Will definitely make the trip to Pateley Bridge, for the best hot chocolates we’ve ever had!”
Another added: “So sad to hear this, the best hot chocolates in York.”