After shutting down operations amidst the chaos and uncertainty of COVID-19 in mid-March, Calgary’s Two Penny and The Tea House announced today that they will both remain closed permanently.

Inspired by ramshackle teahouses along the ancient Silk Road, Two Penny had been a culinary staple in Calgary for close to three years. The Victoria Park neighbourhood restaurant was well-known for its fun family-focused, modern Chinese cuisine, and has been the recipient of a number of awards from publications such as Avenue, Where, and programs like Best of Calgary.

And although the news of Two Penny’s permanent closure will undoubtedly be a heavy blow for many, head chef Marlon Atienza and the Two Penny team won’t be gone for long. 

“While it is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to Two Penny and The Tea House, we are excited to meet these challenges head on and to introduce you to A1 Bodega & Café--our humble service to our community launching soon,” the Two Penny and Tea House family said in a public statement. “So stay tuned for more info, and don’t worry, the familiar staff and faces of Two Penny will be back to greet you when we reopen.”

Details regarding the future of the Tea House are still under wraps, but the Two Penny team have announced that A1 Bodega and Café will open sometime in mid-July as a small neighbourhood grocery and casual restaurant.

"Despite our love for both Two Penny and The Tea House, we wanted to make a change. A change that would serve our community in a different way. A change that would be driven by our people, and our communities new needs," the statement continued. "A concept to serve the people surrounding us in the neighbourhood of Victoria Park and beyond. A space that would serve people through hospitality in a more affordable and accessible way." 

More information along with updates will be posted to the A1 Bodega and Café Instagram page.