TEMPE, Ariz. — In Irish Gaelic, slán go fóill means “goodbye for now.”
It’s a fitting phrase as an iconic Irish bar that was a staple of Tempe nightlife prepares to close its doors.
Rula Bula located right on Mill Avenue in Tempe, just a short jaunt from Arizona State University, will hold a series of final toasts on the nights before its closure on May 23.
Its own name comes from the Gaelic phrase rí rá agus ruaille buaille which translates to "uproar and commotion" in the sense of joy and revelry.
After more than 20 years, the business styled as an authentic Irish pub is shutting down after the bar’s owners said in April that they couldn’t reach a new lease agreement with the building’s owner.
"When you come to Rula Bula you are part of a community,” Rula Bula founder Steve Goumas explained. “That craftmanship, authenticity and atmosphere may be difficult to relocate. We would love everyone to come down for our final last call and experience the ambiance of Rula Bula and share their favorite memories from the pub one more time."
To send the pub off in style, bagpipers will be at the building from May 19 to May 23. Doors close for good at 2 a.m. Sunday.
The pub’s owners also set up a GoFundMe account for staff members and to help with the business closure.
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