'Beloved' Restaurant Unexpectedly Closes After Nearly 20 Years

Sarris Cafe, a popular restaurant and cafe in Pelham, Alabama, announced last Tuesday that it was closing up shop after two decades of service.

The cafeteria-style establishment known for its Southern favorites shared the sad news in a Facebook post. The closure was effective immediately, with Tuesday being the final day of service.

"We are incredibly grateful for the love, support and memories shared with each and every one of you," the post reads. "Your loyalty made this more than a cafe--it became a community, a home, a family.

"Thank you for letting us serve you. We will cherish these moments forever."

Opened by George Sarris, an immigrant from Greece in 2005, Sarris Cafe had been owned since 2016 by Nick Sarris, George's nephew. According to the longtime proprietor, financial concerns were the reason for the sudden shutdown.

“The profit margins aren’t there like they used to be and margins for food are up higher than they were, so it’s kind of a break-even restaurant right now," Sarris told AL.com. "I was keeping it open for the employees, but I just got to a point where it was too much for me to not have anything coming back from it.”

Fans of the restaurant shared their disappointment in the comments' section of the Sarris Cafe Facebook post.

"So sad to hear this. My sister and I ate there every Sunday. Great food and wonderful people. Please tell Nicole and Jasmine we will miss them and we will miss all of you!" one woman wrote.

"Sarris Cafe, you will be deeply missed - not just for your amazing food, but for the love and warmth you brought to our community," a second woman added.

"I’m so sorry! What a loss for all of us in Pelham!" a third said.

The official Sarris Cafe website does not list the restaurant as closed yet, but its menu page only includes the food options for May 27, the last day of business.