The end of an era is nigh in Ballsbridge with the Coq Hardi restaurant planning to close its doors at the end of March. Owners John and Catherine Howard have sold the three-storey over basement listed Georgian building at 35 Pembroke Road to publican John Foley, whose businesses include Foleys pub on Merrion Row. He is thought to have paid over £2 million (€2.54m). Renowned for its wine cellars and the patronage of former Taoiseach Charles Haughey, the Coq Hardi has been run by the Howards for the last 25 years. The restaurant was extensively renovated a few years ago following a fire. The Howards plan to retire from the restaurant business. The new owner has just lodged a planning application for a large extension to the rear of the building on two levels and there is speculation that it may revert to being a private house.