After a drawn-out struggle to stay open during COVID-19, Wilde Rover Irish Pub closed its doors for good on Jan. 24.

“With heavy hearts, we share that tonight is our last night playing at the Wilde Rover Irish Pub. The economic realities of COVID have taken another fine venue,” said Herding Cats the Band, in a Facebook post.

During the pub’s last night of being open, Herding Cats the Band performed for the audience, including covers such as Tom Petty’s “American Girl” and Twisted Sister’s “We’re Not Gonna Take It.”

“After all the years rocking and rolling for the city of Kirkland, Sunday was the most rock n roll-Wilde Rover way to end our legacy with how busy it was and how electric that vibe was,” said Max Purpus, bartender. “It was clear the city of Kirkland wanted to send the Rover off with all the love and appreciation that we have tried to show our guests for our the past 16 years. It’s sad but life will always go on, I was only there for 6ish years but it had been the best place I have ever worked!”

The pub, located at 111 Central Way, opened its doors in 2006 with the idea of bringing food and drinks combined with live music to town. The establishment offered Irish food, including bangers and mash, Guinness lamb stew, and shepherd’s pie, among others.

With a view of Lake Washington from the outdoor deck, Wilde Rover became known as a live music venue in Kirkland, and a place where residents could gather to let loose and make new friends. But like many live music venues and eating establishments, Wilde Rover struggled to stay open throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

After closing and opening its doors throughout the pandemic, Wilde Rover has shut down indefinitely.

The Kirkland Reporter reached out for comment, but received no response.