JR's Hometown Grill & Pub, a popular restaurant chain in Michigan, has suddenly decided to close all its locations. This unexpected move has left many of its loyal customers sad and confused.
JR's Hometown Grill and Pub has announced the closure of its outlets located at 11511 Brooklyn Road in Brooklyn, 1000 Dexter St. in Milan, 1368 Division St. in Adrian, and 111 W. Chicago Blvd. in Tecumseh. The news was confirmed by posting on the company's social media channels.
JR's Hometown Grill & Pub Closes, Owner Cites Multiple Challenges
Robert Loudermilk, the owner of JR's Hometown Grill & Pub, has announced the closure of the chain's multiple locations, attributing the decision to a series of setbacks. His reasons include the lasting effects of COVID-19-related shutdowns in 2020, difficulties in rebuilding the staff, rising operational costs, and decreased sales.
In a heartfelt message on social media, Loudermilk expressed his gratitude to his dedicated staff and friends for their support. He highlighted his efforts to impact each community where the restaurants operated positively.
"For the last year and a half, I have shouldered the financial responsibilities of the business alone," he shared. Loudermilk also mentioned the challenges in securing long-term funding, ultimately leading to the tough decision to shut down the restaurants.
The Milan, Brooklyn, and Tecumseh branches stopped operations on Wednesday, January 23. The Adrian location, however, will remain open until Sunday, January 28. As stated in the social media announcement, customers can use their gift cards at the Adrian restaurant until it closes.
The eatery was famous for its homemade burgers, smoked ribs, sliced steaks, and salmon. Additionally, it offered a range of starters, salads, soups, sandwiches, and seafood dishes.
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Local Patrons Shocked by Sudden Closure of Popular Eatery
The community was greatly saddened by the abrupt closure of the well-loved restaurant, with numerous people expressing dismay on Facebook
One individual recalled, "It was always busy whenever I visited." This sentiment was echoed by others who were equally surprised by the sudden announcement.
"Wow... this is disappointing," commented another regular visitor, reflecting the general disbelief among the clientele.
"I believed they were thriving... the place was always crowded. I always enjoyed my visits there, and the food was excellent," shared another former customer, highlighting the restaurant's popularity and the high regard for its culinary offerings.
JR's initially opened its doors in Adrian in 2009. Following its success, the chain expanded, launching a second location in Tecumseh in 2011. As detailed on its website, the Brooklyn branch welcomed diners in 2012, and the Milan restaurant opened in 2015.
Officials from the restaurant were not reachable for additional statements.
Per their website, JR's location in Adrian operates from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. from Sunday to Thursday and from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays.
Patrons holding gift cards are advised to use them at the Adrian branch during its operational period.
In a statement to local news outlet WLEN, owner Loudermilk expressed his distress over the decision to shut down the restaurants and the impact this has on the numerous employees who worked there.
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