In a heartfelt announcement on Facebook, Mossfire Grill shared its impending closure, leaving many patrons in a state of nostalgia and sadness. With its signature Sunday brunch and inviting vibe, the restaurant has been a cornerstone of Jacksonville, Florida, for nearly three decades.

Longtime patron Mere Mason expressed her grief over the news, saying, “I cried for 45 minutes. I wept.” She fondly remembered the family gatherings at the restaurant’s outdoor picnic tables, struggling to envision life without this cherished spot.

The owners extended their gratitude to the community, acknowledging the countless memories made within the restaurant’s walls. They noted that the choice to close was not made lightly, emphasizing the deep connection they feel with their patrons and the neighborhood.

The owners thanked the community for “filling these walls with memories,” adding that the decision was made with heavy hearts.

Inside the kitchen, Head Chef Cody Eddins said he found out about the closure the same way many customers did, through the public announcement.

“It was really cool that we were able to last 27 years,” Edin said. “It’s just great to be part of that legacy.”

Eddins said the closure comes down to rising food costs, rent, and the lasting impacts of the pandemic.

“It’s a shame. We really had a good thing here – affordable prices, and you walk in, everyone knows your name,” he said. “People have had their wedding receptions, birthdays, even going away parties here.”

Mossfire shares its kitchen space with “From Butter With Love”, a bakery that now has to relocate as well.

“Everyone’s like, ‘We love having a bakery here,’” said owner John Ogle. “But now the timeline just got shortened, so we’ve got to find a new kitchen.”

The closure adds to a growing list of small businesses disappearing from Five Points, with at least seven others closing over the past two years. Dori Thompson, president of the 5 Points Association, said “This is part of a natural ebb and flow we see in business districts everywhere, not just in Five Points. In fact, we’ve been seeing an uptick in new businesses opening in the area, which brings a sense of optimism and momentum.”

“I fear that a lot of our small businesses are on the way out,” Mason said. “But there’s a lot of us fighting for it.”

Despite the difficult news, Chef Edin says he’s noticed an uptick in customers since the announcement, many stopping by for one final meal and a chance to say goodbye.

Mossfire Grill officially closes on Nov. 9.