Wish On Florida – the restaurant where AKA died – is closing down and they have not minced their words about why the business is closing.
“It is with great sadness that we announce the imminent closure of Wish On Florida effective 10th April 2023 – where we will be hosting ‘The Last Supper’,” explained owners in a statement.
Rapper Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes was murdered at point-blank range outside the restaurant in February after a dinner with friends.
Long-time friend and former manager Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsoane also died on the premises after getting caught in the crossfire.
At the time of writing, their killers were still at large.
Downturn in business
“In light of the recent tragic event on our doorstep, we have experienced a severe downturn in business which leaves the directors with no other choice but to close the business permanently as the brand equity of Wish On Florida has been deeply hindered,” read part of an explanation about why the business is closing.
The owners added that the business “was certainly a wish come true for two black entrepreneurs who dedicated the last three years to building a successful black-owned restaurant in the heart of Durban”.
ALSO READ: AKA’s bodyguard claims ‘protocol was breached’ on the night of his murder
This dark fate for the business also comes after the high of winning the Emerging Tourism Entrepreneur Award at the Durban Tourism Business Awards in 2022.
‘Thank you Durban’
The Wish On Florida owners said that they would also like to thank the City of Durban for the tremendous support in the last three years, adding; “catering to you and the rest of the country has been an absolute joy and your support will forever be engraved on Wish On Florida’s legacy”.
They also extended their gratitude to the various brands and suppliers who’ve been part of the Wish On Florida family since the restaurant first opened its doors.
“Last, but not least – our staff members who are the fabric that held Wish On Florida together – this was not an easy decision. Our efforts to keep our doors open to ensure the security of your employment has been difficult, and unfortunately, the above-mentioned has led to an untimely farewell.
“Thank you for your outstanding dedication and passion to providing the best service and quality to Wish On Florida.”
‘The last supper’
The public has been invited to the establishment’s last trading week.
“We have an exciting line-up of activations from 7 April 2023, leading up to ‘The Last Supper’ on 10 April 2023.”
READ NEXT: Three suspects arrested for AKA’s murder have been released