News Summary
In a heartfelt announcement, celebrity chef Paula Deen has decided to close her last restaurant in Georgia, The Lady & Sons, after 36 years. The closure, along with The Chicken Box, marks a significant change in Savannah’s culinary scene. The Deen family expressed gratitude towards their loyal patrons and staff, although many were surprised by the sudden decision. While these establishments are closing, Deen’s culinary legacy will continue through her other locations across the United States, maintaining her influence on Southern cuisine.
Savannah
In a significant development for the culinary landscape of Savannah, celebrity chef Paula Deen has announced the closure of her last Georgia restaurant, The Lady & Sons. This beloved establishment, known for its Southern cuisine, has served patrons for 36 years, with its final day of operations set for July 31. Alongside the closure of The Lady & Sons, the companion eatery The Chicken Box will also shut its doors.
The closure, announced on Friday, was described as a heartfelt decision made by Paula Deen and her sons, Jamie and Bobby. In a social media statement, the Deen family expressed deep gratitude to their loyal customers and dedicated staff who supported the restaurant throughout the decades. They acknowledged the impactful friendships formed over the years and thanked every patron who walked through their doors.
While the announcement emphasized the family’s appreciation for their clientele, it did not provide specific reasons for the restaurant’s closure. This lack of detail has left both staff and devoted patrons feeling disappointed and surprised by the sudden decision. Reports from former employees indicate that many were informed of the restaurant’s impending closure only hours prior via an email, intensifying the shock felt throughout the community.
Despite the closure of The Lady & Sons and The Chicken Box, Deen’s culinary legacy will continue at four other locations across the United States. The remaining properties, known as Paula Deen’s Family Kitchens, are located in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee; Myrtle Beach, South Carolina; Nashville, Tennessee; and Branson, Missouri. The Deen family has plans to focus on these establishments, with visits scheduled to commence, starting in Branson on August 8.
A Culinary Journey
Paula Deen’s restaurant career began in 1989 with the launch of The Bag Lady, which initially provided a delivery service for home-cooked lunches. This entrepreneurial venture laid the foundation for her eventual growth into the full-service restaurant business. The Lady & Sons opened its doors in January 1996, and after several successful years, it moved to its current location on West Congress Street in November 2003. Over the years, The Lady & Sons became a landmark and a significant tourist attraction in Savannah, helping to elevate Deen’s status as a prominent figure in Southern cooking and the Food Network.
Throughout its history, The Lady & Sons has played an essential role in the local economy and has contributed to the charm of Savannah’s dining scene. The restaurant’s traditional Southern dishes became synonymous with Paula Deen’s cooking style, captivating locals and visitors alike.
Legacy in Savannah
Even with the announced closures, the Deen family remains committed to their roots in Savannah, affirming that the city will always be home. They expressed a continuous commitment to support the local community that has embraced them for decades. This deep connection reflects the broader impact that Deen’s restaurants have had on the cultural and culinary identity of Savannah.
As the community begins to come to terms with this significant change in the local dining environment, the Deen family’s next steps will be closely watched by loyal patrons and culinary enthusiasts alike. The closure of The Lady & Sons marks the end of an era, yet Paula Deen’s culinary journey is set to continue in other regions, preserving her influence on Southern cuisine.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Associated Press
- WTOC
- Atlanta Journal-Constitution
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Paula Deen
- Google Search: Paula Deen restaurant closure
