It is so hard to say “goodbye.”
But that is what another Connecticut restaurant did this week, joining many others that have shared the news and sadness of closings on Facebook.
In this latest case, it is Guilford Mooring, which has operated in Connecticut for more than two decades, drawing diners from across the state to the shoreline.
“It is with a VERY heavy heart that I must say, after 24 years we will be closing our door for good this Saturday. Mike, Fran, Anthony, and I want to extend our deepest gratitude to all of our loyal customers who have supported us over the years,” the eatery’s owners wrote on Facebook.
The grief that comes along with such decision was evident.
“Honestly as I sit (here) trying to form words to explain it ……… I am at a loss,” the Guilford Mooring team wrote.
The news of the closing comes as many restaurants in the state struggle as habits and customer patterns change, inflation takes its toll, profits drop and it can be difficult to retain staff.
Restaurant closures have been announced nearly weekly on Facebook in the last year and some establishments have done it more quietly, greeting customers with a sign on their locked door.
Scott Dolch, president and CEO of the Connecticut Restaurant Association, has said it’s a complex issue — a combination of increased costs and changes to the way people dine since the pandemic.
Dolch has noted that 97% of Connecticut’s full-service restaurants are independently owned, the highest percentage in the country.
It was clear the Guilford Mooring customers were as beloved to it as the eatery was to customers.
“Whether you came in for a quick bite, celebrated special occasions, or made us a part of your regular routine, each visit has been an integral part of our story,” the Guilford Mooring team wrote. “We are truly honored to have been a part of this community, and we will cherish the friendships we’ve made along the way.”
The outpouring from customers was immediate and often based on longtime experiences and events.
“This makes me so sad! So many memories there. Had my first legal martini at the bar, and the good beyond amazing. Many memories with my dad there as well. So sad to see you go,” one person wrote.
Others shared that very special events had taken place there over the years.
“End of an era! We will cherish our memories of our rehearsal dinner at the Mooring. Wishing you all well and thank you for the memories,” another customer wrote.
Others noted that the business was active in the community, including Guilford High School.
“Thank you for everything you did for CT Special Olympics and Guilford Police Department. We always appreciated your willingness to contribute and your steadfast involvement in the community! You will be missed,” was another post on Facebook.
“So sorry to hear this. You have been both a great dining place but also a wonderful community partner,” was another.
Others wrote that there were multiple special occasions celebrated there.
“This is so sad! Thank you for all the amazing memories and good food. We’ve had so many good times with you-date nights, family dinners, dinners with friends, School of Rock gigs and more. Best of luck to all of you. Our family will miss having you here,” one customer wrote.
The Guilford Mooring team noted, “While our doors may be closing, the memories and experiences we’ve shared will stay with us forever.
“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to have served you, and we hope to cross paths again in the future.
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for being a part of our journey,” the Guilford Mooring team wrote.
Many customers wished the business owners well for future endeavors.
“Customers Oh dear…….I can’t believe what I’m reading!!! I am so sorry to hear this news. We wish you well in your next adventures and you will be greatly missed,” ine wrote, adding multiple exclamation points.
Dolch also has noted that a type doing better than others is fast, casual dining, where customers have the option to grab and go quality food, with consumers seeking fast service and “a robust take-out plan,” part of a national trend.
That’s a generational preference and lifestyle change brought on in part by the pandemic because of remote working, he has said.
