Community packs Riverside cafe on past day of enterprise

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Judging by the group within Southern Roots Filling Station Saturday early morning, it would be challenging for some to consider it was the previous working day the well known vegan restaurant would be open for organization. The line to get in for a past cup of Joe and bite to consume went around the corner outside the organization on King Street.

Alex Hayward explained even although he’s not a vegan, he was the initial 1 in line the working day it opened.

“When they 1st opened, I experienced a newborn,” Hayward defined. “Every working day I’d thrust him down listed here in the stroller, get my espresso, and have my moment of peace when my youngster would sleep and get his nap in. We came below just about every solitary working day for probably two many years.”

The owners of Southern Roots Filling Station, J.P. Salvat and his spouse, Mariah Goelz, declared the closure this week on social media. The pair mentioned although it was a tricky selection, they cited uncertainty bordering what could be a important lease raise. Even however the couple and their staff were being exceptionally occupied powering the counter, they took the time to say thank you.

“It’s unbelievable, to be 100% straightforward, unbelievable,” Salvat reported. “It’s been like this all week, and I just cannot even believe it. I’m thankful.”

Robin Lanigan Johnston is just one of those people loyal shoppers to occur bid farewell. She informed News4JAX she is vegan, and the restaurant’s plant-centered and gluten-free choices prompted her to go to the community.

“This is evidence of how supportive the neighborhood is of this site and of the entrepreneurs,” Lanigan Johnston explained. “And what they stand for, and how a lot the group is going to pass up them.”

Even nevertheless this chapter is closing, the support from loyal consumers will remain.

“I hope they just transfer ahead,” Hayward claimed. “They hold going and do regardless of what their up coming venture is.”

1 final day of enterprise, but fond recollections to final a lifetime.

Southern Roots is not the only beloved area company that won’t be all over in 2023. The San Marco Theatre declared Wednesday that it will permanently close its doors Sunday.