JENSEN BEACH, Fla. — Mulligan’s in Jensen Beach was open one last day on Sunday. The popular is closing its doors after 23 years in business.
The restaurant’s owner released a statement explaining that the closure is due to high rent costs, noting they tried to find a buyer for six months but were unsuccessful because of the lease terms.
WATCH BELOW: Mulligan’s in Jensen Beach closes after 23 years
Mulligan’s in Jensen Beach closes after 23 years
“Unfortunately, for the past couple of years, we worked only to pay the exorbitant rent to the landlord,” the owner said.
The owner stated the business has remained strong for 23 years, but not strong enough to cover the expenses.
“The building is already becoming half empty; it’s obvious other businesses are having the same problem paying West Palm Beach rent prices in Jensen Beach,” the owner said.
Staff members at the Jensen Beach location were offered the option to transfer to Mulligan’s locations in Vero Beach or Sebastian, which will remain open. Some employees have decided to work at those locations, while others told WPTV they weren’t sure they were going to make the move.
The owner expressed gratitude to Ron Rose from the Chamber of Commerce, neighboring businesses and the staff for their support over the years.
“I may find another location in Martin County, or I may drive into the sunset and enjoy the rest of my life,” the owner said.
The scenic view at Mulligan’s was enough to draw countless families to dine at the Jensen Beach staple for more than two decades.
“Everyone comes here to have fun, to feel the breeze, and to look at the water,” hostess Rena Caldwell said.
However, it was what was inside the restaurant that kept people coming back.
“When they first opened up, I noticed that they were very friendly,” said Jerry Barbieri, a Mulligan’s customer, told WPTV on Sunday.
“The food and the service and the surroundings, the beauty of it,” said customer, Ina Mallory.
The owner’s decision to close rocked the area and its customers.
“I was saddened by hearing the news. My son and I always come here for breakfast after sunrise,” Mallory said.
“This one makes me sad. I’ve seen a lot of changes to restaurants throughout the years,” said Barbieri.
“It’s like a hub around our town, and that to me is more important than another $10,000 or whatever else they want,” said Caldwell.
“It might be Mulligan’s last day open, but it’s a memory for us that will last a lifetime,” said Jessica Manis, a first-time customer.
A day that began with an Easter sunrise ended with a sunset at this popular eatery.
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