A popular downtown Lockport restaurant said it will temporarily cease regular operations Monday, but will continue to honor all booked private parties.
Embers and 933 Speakeasy, 933 S. State St., which has been part of Lockport for 11 years, said its last day for regular restaurant service will be Sunday.
Embers said in a social media post this week the decision was not made lightly, but the business continues to face challenges that require difficult decisions.
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“This temporary pause will give us the opportunity to regroup, reassess and determine the best path forward for Embers and 933 Speakeasy,” the announcement said. “We remain hopeful that this is simply a pause — not a goodbye — and that we’ll have the opportunity to welcome everyone back through our doors again soon.”
Beth Tujo, executive director of the Lockport Chamber of Commerce, said the business offers delicious food, a great atmosphere and keeps up with trends. Chamber members and business owners were saddened to hear of the closure, Tujo said, adding she hopes it will only be temporary.
“Embers is a very important part of our downtown area,” Tujo said. “This has been a very sad couple of days.”
Tujo said downtown business owners are very close and desire to create a different ambience that attracts customers from Lockport and beyond.
“There’s a lot of heart in the city,” she said. “Everyone is very passionate.”
Several Lockport businesses, including Villa Nova Pizza, Stella’s on State and Beanie’s Candy Store and Ice Cream, posted their well-wishes on social media.
“News like this is difficult to hear, especially when it involves new found friends and a business that has contributed so much to our community,” Stella’s on State said in a statement. “We’re grateful for everything you’ve brought to Lockport over the years, and we’ll be rooting for you as you decide what the next chapter looks like.”
The business opened in 2015 in the former Dreams Restaurant & Bar, which sat vacant since a 5-alarm fire in 2008. The building was completely remodeled for the 5,000-square-foot, street-level restaurant, a second-floor banquet room and rooftop patio overlooking the Illinois & Michigan Canal and downtown attractions such as farmers markets and cruise nights, a Daily Southtown report from 2015 said.
Embers and 933 Speakeasy has space for parties with accommodations for up to 200 guests.
The 933 Speakeasy hosted hands-on classes with expert bartenders to create classic cocktails in a Prohibition-inspired atmosphere.
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Embers also planned a calendar of events, such as live music, Thursday night trivia and specialty celebrations such as its annual Oktoberfest.
Michelle Mullins is a freelance reporter for the Daily Southtown.