Aragon Cafe in Downtown Pensacola to Close After Nearly a Decade of Service
PENSACOLA, Fla. – The vibrant downtown area of Pensacola is set to lose a beloved dining establishment as Aragon Cafe announces its impending closure after nearly seven years of operation. The cafe, located on 9th Avenue, will serve its last meals this Sunday, marking the end of an era for both the restaurant and its loyal patrons.
Economic Challenges Lead to Closure
The decision to close was shared via social media, where the owners cited economic challenges as the primary reason for shutting down. General Manager Cory Ernes revealed that the cafe has experienced a significant slowdown in business over the past few months, particularly during the typically bustling Thanksgiving season. "Normally, we do butts and birds for Thanksgiving. We usually sell around 2,025 of them, but this year we only had one," Ernes lamented, attributing the decline in sales to changing consumer spending habits amid rising inflation.
The cafe’s struggles are not isolated; the broader economic landscape has affected many businesses. While the National Restaurant Association reports an uptick in sales and traffic across the industry, Aragon Cafe’s experience tells a different story. "The last three months have probably been the worst we’ve had in business in a couple of years," Ernes stated, highlighting the stark contrast between the cafe’s performance and the overall industry trends.
A Busy Farewell
Since the announcement of its closure, Aragon Cafe has seen an influx of customers, with the wait staff reporting some of the busiest days in recent memory. "Since they made that post yesterday morning, it’s been nonstop, and I think it’ll be that way for the rest of the week," Ernes noted. Regulars and newcomers alike are flocking to the cafe, eager to savor their favorite dishes one last time.
Barista Jordan expressed the bittersweet atmosphere, saying, "We’ve definitely got more than we usually do. The regulars have come in, and they’re sad we’re closing, too." The sense of community surrounding the cafe is palpable, with many patrons expressing their disappointment at the news.
Staff Resilience Amidst Uncertainty
The staff at Aragon Cafe is committed to providing excellent service until the very end. Despite the disappointment of the closure, they have chosen to remain on their schedules and work through the final days. "Everybody’s shocked, everybody’s distraught," Ernes shared, emphasizing the strong bond between the staff and their customers. "Everyone loves it though. They were told they could leave or stay, and everyone’s staying on their schedules and working all they want."
For many employees, the closure brings uncertainty. Jordan, a college student, plans to return home until the next semester, hoping to find a new job upon her return. The emotional toll of the closure is evident, as staff members reflect on their time at the cafe and the relationships they’ve built with customers.
A Community Loss
The closure of Aragon Cafe is part of a larger trend in the region, with more than 15 restaurants shutting their doors across Escambia and Santa Rosa counties last year alone. The loss of such a cherished establishment is felt deeply within the community, as it has been a gathering place for friends, families, and locals since its opening in 2017.
As the countdown to the final day continues, the community is encouraged to visit the cafe and share in its farewell. With its doors set to close for the last time on Sunday, Aragon Cafe will leave behind a legacy of good food, warm service, and cherished memories for all who walked through its doors.