A much-loved cafe frequented by Albion stars is closing its doors for the final time.

The tapas wine bar, in Church Road, Hove, announced the closure last night on Instagram. 

Cafe Malbec, which opened in 2017, said now felt like the "right time to say goodbye on a high".

The business is owned by Damian Kelly who also owns Argentinian steakhouse LatinoAmerica Grill next door.

Both businesses have been frequented by Albion's Spanish and South American stars  including former striker Leonardo Ulloa, Moises Caicedo, Jeremy Sarmiento, World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister, and many more over the years.

The cafe posted: "After six years, it’s time for us to say goodbye to Café Malbec.

"We thank you so much for all your support as we hold so many wonderful memories over the years, wine and good times, especially Argentina winning the 2022 World Cup, so we felt like this was the right time to say goodbye on a high.

"However, it is not all sad news.

The Argus: Alexis Mac Allister is one of the stars who visits LatinoAmerica and Cafe MalbecAlexis Mac Allister is one of the stars who visits LatinoAmerica and Cafe Malbec (Image: Liz Finlayson)

"We have a new brunch menu now available at LatinoAmerica next door and bottomless brunch will still also be available, as well as our wine tasting events too."

They finished with a message in Spanish which translated to "see you next door, until next time".

Tributes poured in from customers following the announcement.

Elizabeth Weeks said: "Cafe Malbec was much loved and will be much missed. Looking forward to continuing to support you at LatinoAmerica."

The Argus: Leo Ulloa in Cafe Malbec this monthLeo Ulloa in Cafe Malbec this month (Image: The Argus)

Marcus Lavaggi-Bowen said: "So sad to hear this, although LatinoAmerica is still here, it's not going to be the same without you next door."

The Anglo Argentine Society said: "Some decisions are very difficult and we wish you the very best."

Marcella James added: "Good luck, well done for all your hard work."

Leo Ulloa, who played for Albion from 2012 to 2014, was in Cafe Malbec at the beginning of the month when The Argus interviewed him about how impressed he was with Albion this season.

Cafe Malbec has been approached for comment on its closure.