Southern Thymes Café closed Monday nearly seven months after its chef proclaimed “RIP Meat and 3”.
Southern Thymes at 219 Trade Street, had signage on its window and door announcing its closing and thanking customers for their support on Monday. A separate hand-written sign announced the restaurant was for sale.
The cultural food revolution launched in February didn’t go over with the regulars who left for other traditional fare. Two months ago the restaurant went back to its core menu of meat and three, changing chefs and managers. But it was too little too late.
Brandon Godrey transitioned the restaurant last winter with a menu offering the likes of catfish tacos, chicken and waffles, marinated herb chicken and Black Angus beef as a lunch and dinner entrée. Customers were also invited to bring their own beer and wine.
As the regulars left the popular restaurant that featured home cooking, all day breakfast and the popular meat and three sides with tea and biscuits, the new management was frequently changing hours of operation hoping to regain its niche.
“It’s tough to lose a crowd and it’s tougher to get them back,” said Janet Marcantonio, an artist whose works were on display at the restaurant. “I’m looking for someone so I can get my art back,” she said while peering through the restaurant’s glass.
The Greater Greer Rotary scheduled its Tuesday meetings three times a month at Southern Thymes.