Fatz Cafe Closes Clinton Alongside All 17 Other Locations
In a sudden move, popular eatery Fatz Cafe has made the decision to permanently close all of its operations. Distinctively known for its casual dining atmosphere, Fatz Cafe served communities in Clinton and 17 other locations spread across five states: the Carolinas, Georgia, Tennessee, and Virginia.
The South Carolina-based company, Cafe Enterprises, carried out the closures without prior public disclosure. This came as a surprise to many patrons who were met with a sign on the doors of the restaurant stating “We are sorry to announce that after proudly serving this and many other communities for years Fatz Cafe will be closed permanently.” Along with the Clinton site, locations in Greenwood and Greer were also among the ones affected.
Chapter 7 Bankruptcy Filing Signals the End
Reports have emerged that the parent company has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. This filing marks the initiation of liquidation proceedings for all assets owned by the company. Despite the regrettable circumstances, the management of Fatz Cafe expressed gratitude towards all its customers and team members.
Fatz Cafe issued an official statement declaring, “While this is not the outcome anyone expected or wanted, we take solace in knowing that Fatz Cafe served its intended purpose by providing a place for family and friends to gather around a dinner table and make memories that can be cherished for a lifetime.”
Downsizing in the Casual Dining Sector
Fatz Cafe’s closure comes as part of an ongoing trend in the casual dining sector. Other notable closures include Wild Wing Cafe, which declared bankruptcy in July but has managed to keep its 24 locations across the region open. In comparison, O’Charley’s made the decision last week to close 18 of its 91 locations.
A Brief History of Fatz Cafe
Since its inception in 1988, Fatz Cafe has held a strong presence in the casual dining industry, reaching up to 50 locations at its peak. The closures also signify an end to the cafe’s 15 years presence in Clinton. This comes as a significant loss to the local community, where the café was a beloved spot for families and friends to gather.
The sudden closures of Fatz Cafe clearly exhibit the continuous volatility in the dining sector, especially amidst the recent economic climate. The company’s history and reputation in the sector will surely be remembered, but its closure speaks to a larger trend of instability in dining out across the country.
