Hampton, TN

Beloved Family-Style Restaurant in Tennessee Closes After 33 Years

John M. Dabbs

Shirley's Home Cooking, a popular family-style restaurant in Hampton, Tennessee, has closed after 33 years of operation. In a social media post, the owners cited health struggles within the family and post-COVID business challenges as the reasons for the decision.

The news, was announced in a social media post yesterday and came as a shock to most people in the area. Shirley's was a fixture of the community where many people came to enjoy the lake on the weekends would stop for lunch or dinner.

The pandemic has had a devastating impact on the restaurant industry across the United States. According to the National Restaurant Association, 17% of restaurants in the country have permanently closed due to COVID-19, while the industry lost $240 billion in sales between March and December 2020.

Shirley's Home Cooking was a beloved fixture in the Hampton community, and its closure is sure to be felt by many. However, the owners are committed to keeping the Shirley's Home Cooking brand alive, stating that they are exploring all options and creating backup plans for their loyal customers.

The restaurant plans to continue catering and fulfilling all orders that have already been placed. The owners have emphasized that they want to maintain their reputation for providing excellent food and service and will do everything possible to accommodate their clients' needs.

A Harvard Business School study found that when a restaurant closes, it has a ripple effect on the local community, leading to job losses and decreased economic activity. The closure of Shirley's Home Cooking serves as a reminder of small businesses' challenges during the pandemic.

Despite the hardship, the owners of Shirley's Home Cooking remain committed to keeping their brand alive and thriving. Those interested in booking Shirley's Home Cooking for an event can contact them directly at 423-957-1320.

The closure of Shirley's Home Cooking is a loss for the Hampton community. Still, the resilience of small businesses like this is a testament to their dedication to providing quality service and their ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

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An outdoor enthusiast with a passion for travel and adventure. John is a professional consultant and photojournalist.

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