Hub City Smokehouse & Grill, an award-winning local eatery, has announced it will provisionally close its doors by the end of October due to ongoing economic challenges.

• In a post on social media, the restaurant cited several factors contributing to the decision, including inflation, a fluctuating economy, rising food costs, taxes, increasing payroll expenses, volatility in commercial real estate, and challenges associated with renting an 80-year-old building.

“Despite our best efforts to navigate these economic hurdles, we have reached a point where continuing operations at our current location is no longer feasible,” the statement read.

The restaurant plans to concentrate on its catering operations at its Wilson Street location. Additionally, the breakfast service and popular barbecue dishes will be transferred to The Hub Family Restaurant.

The owners expressed gratitude to their customers and staff, stating, “We are immensely proud of the community we have built together and the memories we have shared here on Main Street and throughout Crestview.”

The restaurant management plans to work with employees to integrate them into their new business model. They also encouraged other local business owners to consider hiring their staff, vouching for their quality.

• While closing their Main Street location, the owners remain hopeful about the future, mentioning the possibility of reopening at a new location if an opportunity arises.

The post concluded by encouraging customers to support their other ventures, including The Hub American Family Restaurant, Baker Bites, and Sports Center Concessions, as well as other local businesses facing similar challenges.