This post was contributed by a community member. The views expressed here are the author's own.

Health & Fitness

Support Your Locally Owned Restaurants

Locally owned small restaurants need your support. Help me encourage visits to neighborhood enterprises.

I usually write to you about the new and exciting restaurants in and around our neighborhoods. Today I'd like to write about something a bit more serious.

How many times have you walked into a restaurant and felt an immediate welcome, feeling like you've arrived at your favorite relative's home for dinner? Well, I have experienced that in many of our local establishments. It may very well be that I frequent them more often that the average person, but how wonderful is it to walk in and feel a warm smile greeting you, sometimes even with hugs and air kisses?

I am writing this blog today to let you all know that one of my favorite little pubs had to close its doors. , sent me a notice  last week, thanking me for my patronage and letting me know that they can no longer sustain their business. I am saddened by this news because they are locally owned and I feel like a family member has just moved away. They still own Olde Blind Dog, but the feeling of having a "go to" in the neighborhood has disappeared.

Find out what's happening in Johns Creekwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

I urge all of you, who have a favorite locally owned establishment, to continue to let your friends know about each one of these places. Spread the word when you find someplace special.

It is difficult enough for small businesses to make it these days so when you find a great little Bistro, a beloved cafe, or a special hideaway- talk it up.

Find out what's happening in Johns Creekwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Although I am sad about losing one of my favorites, there are still many great places to eat. Stay locally or venture to a nearby neighborhood, but remember to support the small business owner so they don't vanish.

Please feel free to post any of the names of your favorite individually owned restaurants.

Bon Appetite!

We’ve removed the ability to reply as we work to make improvements. Learn more here

The views expressed in this post are the author's own. Want to post on Patch?

More from Johns Creek