‘We are not big corporations’ – Irish cafe’s heartbreak as small business ‘broken into’ overnight in ‘disturbing’ attack

A DUBLIN cafe has shared its heartbreak after being targeted in a “disturbing” overnight break-in.

Gardai are working with the owners to investigate the incident at Rustic Honey Food cafe in Cherrywood, Dublin.

The business in Cherrywood was victim to a suspected break-in last night

The four-star cafe shared horror images of damage caused by the break-in as they assured customers they will open today.

One side of a large set of glass double doors was completely shattered in the suspected overnight break-in.

Shards of glass can be seen piled inside the cafe, suggesting the intruders may have smashed the glass inwards to gain entry.

The images were posted to @rustichoneyfood on Instagram today they informed customers: “We were broken into last night.”

In one chilling image of the scene, a till drawer can be seen lying on the pavement outside the cafe with coins scattered around it.

In an emotional statement the contemporary food business said they felt “violated” and warned attacks on small businesses “impact livelihoods”

The business was set up in 2019 by founder Anna Shipley and opens seven days a week in Cherrywood Business Park.

Explaining their shock the owner said: “To say we feel violated is an understatement. This is upsetting, disturbing, and deeply personal.

“We feel sick to our stomachs knowing that someone would target a small, locally owned business that pours everything into serving its community.

“Small businesses – especially in hospitality – are already struggling more than most people realize. We are not big corporations with endless resources.

“We are families, staff, and hardworking people doing everything we can to keep our doors open. We are hanging on by a thread.”

Rustic Honey confirmed no one was hurt in the attack and that they are now taking “every step necessary to protect” the building and staff.

Additionally, they asked customers to “bear with” staff as work gets underway to repair the glass doors.

The team also issued a heartfelt thanks to everyone who has already reached out to offer support.

But the owner continued: “When something like this happens, it doesn’t just damage property. It impacts livelihoods, morale, and the heart of a space built for the community.

“We will continue to push forward, but we ask for respect. Leave small businesses alone. Let us do what we love — serving our community.”

The popular business operates both a wholesale bakery and cafe in the capital.