Cult-Favourite Melbourne Cabaret Dracula's To Close After Almost Four Decades

The operators of Dracula's Cabaret Restaurant in Melbourne say they've been "completely overwhelmed" by public support following the news that the iconic theatre and dining venue would be closing its doors for good after 37 years of operation.

As Fairfax reports, the restaurant's long-time owners — the Newman family — announced the impending closure on Tuesday this week.

"We are extremely proud of our venue and show, both of which are receiving great feedback from happy customers," they said in a statement. "However, we are seeing the demand for our style of live entertainment in the region we offer has diminished in recent years, despite our earnest efforts to maintain our popularity."

The family, which has run the cabaret restaurant through its company Newman Entertainment International since its inception, said that their other operations — namely, Dracula's Gold Coast and the five-level Dracula's Haunted House in Surfers Paradise — will remain unchanged, with the latter even scheduled for a "complete reboot … with an exciting new attraction" next year.

"We want to take this time to sincerely thank each and every one of you for your contribution to what has been an incredibly rewarding and successful business over almost four decades," the Newmans said. "We hope you'll have as many fond memories of the venue as we do!"

With the news that their final show will be on Saturday 23 December, NEI said there has been "a massive rush" for tickets to the venue's last performances, with most Saturdays now sold out and Fridays swiftly filling up.

The bookings that remain are available via the restaurant's website or on (03) 9340 2600.