Cookshop Plus in West Hartford is closing its doors for good early next year.
The kitchen supplies store announced on social media recently that the business will close after 10 years of business in 60 LaSalle Road.
“After a decade of serving our incredible community, we have made the decision to close doors to Cookshop Plus at the end of January 2026,” owners Samantha and James Hines stated on a social media post.
“We want to extend our deepest gratitude to our customers and employees who have been part of our journey over the last 10 years. Thank you for letting us share in your special events, cooking adventures and gift giving. To the hundreds of people who joined us in the Cookshop Kitchen for a class, we hope you continue on in your culinary journey,”
The Hines, who are from Australia, opened the store in 2015 at 977 Farmington Ave. and relocated to a larger space in 2019.
“I think our main aim is to bring a little part of Australia, but also a family-run community business with a small feel,” Jimmy Hines said in 2015. “We didn’t want to be in a mall or outlet center. We wanted to be part of the local community.”
According to the store’s website, Cookshop Plus has sells cookware, cutlery, tableware and chefs’ tools.
“As newcomers to the U.S.A., navigating the first years of a new business, with a COVID closures and a location move — we have been fortunate to have wonderful customers supporting us every step of the way. Being part of such a wonderful community has meant the world to us,” the owners said.
The owners posted that “they look forward to new adventures and challenges.”
“Whilst it’s never easy to say goodbye, we are excited for what the future holds and take immense pride in all that we’ve built,” the couple said.
According to the couple, it will be business as usual for Cookshop Plus until the final day of operation. Cooking classes will continue through the end of December.
“We look forward to celebrating the holidays with you and sharing these last few months together. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for 10 amazing years of memories, meals and moments,” the owners said.
Some customers responded to the social media post, expressing sadness that the business was closing.
“This breaks my heart. I have enjoyed coming in and getting all my pots and kitchen gadgets. This store will truly be missed,” one customer said.
“I am so sorry to learn this. I love everything about your store and in particular the feeling I gain every time I’m there that I can do anything and be creative and brave in the kitchen. Wishing you many amazing adventures ahead,” another customer posted.
One customer noted that “it was an annual tradition for our family to do a cooking class with your team.”
“So many good memories made there (as well as amazing food). Wishing you best of luck in the adventures ahead,” a customer wrote.
“Oh this is just sad news! The best to you all,” said another.