After 45 years in business, popular San Jose restaurant
Emperor Norton’s is closing for good Sunday, in part because of the strain
COVID-19 has placed on the business.
On Saturday night a long line of customers waited for
orders, but nobody complained about the wait on the last night they would enjoy
a longtime local favorite.
“Unfortunately it feels horrible,” said Doug Savage, an
employee. “It’s like losing a second home. This is a restaurant that is going
to be missed by the entire community.”
Employees said that, like many restaurants, Emperor Norton’s
struggled with increasing rent, labor and food costs. But it was coronavirus
that packed an unexpected punch.
“Unfortunately it had to do with the COVID crisis going on,”
said Savage.
On Saturday night, employees said business was up more than
40%, with customers coming in to say their final goodbyes.
For customer Brent Przybus, the restaurant is filled with
good memories.
“I grew up just down the street from here,” he said. “We used
to come here as kids with our parents in the late 70s.”
Przybus said he’s sad to see the neighborhood eatery close.
“It’s kind of sad with this COVID-19 you think something
that’s been around this long and has done well and then to have this happen, it’s
pretty sad,” he said.
Emperor Norton’s will close for good Sunday at 8 p.m.
Employees said it’s been especially difficult because of social distancing they
can’t even hug longtime customers goodbye.
Source: NBC Bay Area