BRUNSWICK, Ga. – Fat & Fine Crab Shack in Brunswick will close its doors at the start of the new year, joining a growing list of local and national restaurants shuttering amid economic pressures.
The restaurant announced Monday on Facebook, saying, “With heavy but grateful hearts — thank you for 9 wonderful years.”
Owner Sarah Cross said rising costs have made it difficult to keep the business afloat.
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“It’s just the current economic times. The cost of food is steadily going up, paper goods, cleaning supplies, just everything in general price-wise is going up in cost, but the quality of things are going down,” Cross said.
Though Fat & Fine Crab Shack has been in business for nine years, it has operated at its current location only since March. Sales were strong through mid-August.
“We were profiting, and then after back-to-school time, it kind of died off a good bit, and it’s not really picked back up for any of the downtown businesses, in my opinion,” Cross said. “There are a couple that stay busy, but they’ve been open a lot longer than we have.”
The closure reflects a broader trend affecting restaurants locally and nationally. Jenkins Barbeque closed all three of its locations at the end of September, citing rising food costs and supply chain issues.
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Other local closures this year include Burrito Gallery’s multiple locations, Bearded Pig’s Jacksonville Beach spot, Ragtime in Atlantic Beach, Plenti, Iguana on Park, and The Happy Grilled Cheese in downtown Jacksonville.
Nationally, Wendy’s announced it will close hundreds of restaurants, though specific locations have not been disclosed. Hooters closed about 30 locations across the U.S., including its Southside Jacksonville restaurant.
Cross encourages customers to support local businesses despite higher prices.
“If you’re out and about and you know something you’re looking for, try to find a local business that sells that. It might cost a couple of dollars more, but you’re helping support a family, not a corporation,” she said.
Fat & Fine Crab Shack’s last day of business will be Jan. 2. The restaurant plans to remain open Fridays and through the following week from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.