03/29/2023
It is with utmost sadness that we must announce the (immediate and sudden) closure of Benedict. Due to circumstances outside our control, we were unable to notify our community until this week, and for that we are immensely sorry, and your energy and kindness will be sorely missed. This was a decision that we did not take lightly, both for the sake of our wonderful staff and for the relationships and community we have built over the past 4 years.
I continue to reflect with gratitude and humility as I think about the many, many experiences, relationships, memories, challenges, and incredible people I have had the opportunity to engage with over the years. We started, two months before COVID hit, at 405 S. Union, a location without a restroom, 19 seats, and a portable hood with induction burners. We saw immense demand and success despite the challenges of COVID and moved into a larger location at 237 Lake Ave. in December of 2020. Needless to say, we’ve had our ups and downs both at the restaurant, and in our life with two kids (4) and (2). The community we have built has changed my life and I will miss our regulars as well as those discovering us for the first time. I treasure the moments I am able to sneak into the dining room for a moment and discover two tables (who obviously did not know each other) leaning over in conversation or scooching their tables together. Couples have their first dates at Benedict, celebrate anniversaries, or visit weekly for their “usual” order of root veggie hash, soft scrambled eggs, extra egg, no feta. I’ve been putting off drafting this letter, because, to me, drafting it, made it final. I’ve been through all the stages. Denial has clung to me, like my 2-year-old demanding a snack. Now, I’ve moved on to acceptance, but that doesn’t make this any easier.
We set out early this year to find someone who would carry on Benedict, and our intention was to hold space for Benedict in the community as we found a new buyer. The circumstances changed as time went on, and it necessitated swift transition. Unfortunately, for that reason, the Benedict brand cannot continue at its current location. I like to think there is a reason for the way things sort themselves out, and I am learning to be patient for the unfolding of the future of Benedict, my personal career, and my life as a mom of two.
Many folks in our close circle were aware of the changes that are forthcoming for Benedict. While we always aim to maintain as much transparency as possible, our decision to move on was made largely due to immediate personal concerns, and we ask for privacy for our family during this transition. There are other reasons that contributed to our decision, but we’ll save those conversations for close friends/industry colleagues over a beer.
Our hope is that Benedict will continue to exist in a different capacity. We are exploring opportunities for prep kitchens to continue to offer catering, quiche, pastries, and various private breakfast opportunities. Stay tuned as we sort out the details and logistics.
We will be open this week Wednesday (3/29), and Thursday (3/30) will be our last day of operation. We will be open until we sell out and will continue to hold our merchandise sale for those looking to snag some swag while you can.
Take it easy my friends,
Leslie