There are some restaurants that become a community go-to because they’re convenient and affordable.
And others are equally beloved but reserved for special occasions.
Either way, dining out is almost always a treat because it’s a meal that someone else has planned and prepared — and will even scrub the pans and dishes afterward.
What’s not to love?
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In some cases, the food might be something you could easily prepare yourself. But just as often, it’s a type of cuisine you’re unfamiliar with or is complicated to make — sushi anyone? — or the ingredients are so special that you simply couldn’t replicate the menu at home.
But for many Americans who are cutting back on their discretionary spending, dining out has become a luxury, period.
At the same time, restaurants are facing rising rents and labor costs and increased prices for even the most basic ingredients.
It’s a recipe that’s making survival difficult. Even decades-old chains like Buca di Beppo, Roti, and Rubio’s have all filed for Chapter 11 protection in the last year.
When the corporate chains have a hard time, it’s no surprise that everyone else does, too.
A beloved Virginia restaurant is closing permanently
When you hear about a “farm to table” eatery, you probably think of some of the famous spots in California before you think of…Virginia. But The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm in Lovettsville, Virginia, was one of the first farm-to-table eateries in the U.S. and it became a popular spot for locals and visitors since it is just an hour from Washington, D.C.
The farm came first, founded by Beverly Morton Billand in the 1980s. She grew vegetables, herbs, and produce and then opened the restaurant in 1997, with seasonal menus featuring everything she grew on site.
The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm gained a reputation as a special-occasion spot where people celebrated birthdays, anniversaries, and other milestones.
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But now the celebrated spot is closing for good. Billand announced on the restaurant’s website the place she founded will serve its last meal on August 31, 2025.
On a heartfelt message she also posted on Facebook, Billand didn’t give a reason.
“There comes a moment when we must honor the natural rhythm of life and embrace change. That moment has arrived. What began as a dream blossomed into a beautiful chapter – a place rooted in purpose and filled with meaning. Never could I have imagined how deeply this restaurant would shape my life, nor how many treasured memories would be written within its walls and across its fields.”
Hundreds of fans have shared their sadness on social media, starting the minute the announcement was made. “I took my parents here for our first fine dining experience. It was the most magical and moving day,” wrote one.
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“Thank you for providing the backdrop for all the special moments in our lives! I feel like you are a part of our family – We spent many a Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, anniversaries, and celebrations with you,” said another.
And “Godspeed and thank you for supporting local farms, giving guests the most beautiful views, even during Covid (a carry-out dinner made a special event!).”
Americans are cutting spending, and it’s hurting restaurants of all sizes
As uncertainties around tariffs and the overall economic outlook loom, consumers are having to be choosier with their dollars.
Fast-food chains are struggling because low-income consumers are staying away, according to a report in Axios, but restaurants with niche appeal, and those have limited service, like The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm are also vulnerable.
The Restaurant at Patowmack Farm features a prix fixe tasting menu that runs $185 per person for dinner (drinks and gratuity not included) and only serves Thursday-Saturday plus Sunday brunch/lunch which makes it attractive to a certain type of diner.
While Billand didn’t state dwindling sales as a reason for her decision to close, it’s not hard to imagine the tough times facing the restaurant industry played a role in her decision.
If this farm-to-table experience has been on your bucket list, it’s not too late: The restaurant is taking reservations through the end of the month.
Related: Iconic Mexican restaurant closing after successful 44-year run
