Popular Comfort Food Chain to Close Florida Location Permanently

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Rusty Bucket, a beloved comfort food chain known for its casual American fare, is closing its Sarasota, Florida location later this month. The Sarasota branch, the only Rusty Bucket in Florida, will shut its doors permanently on August 18. The news, which was confirmed by a bartender at the restaurant, came as a surprise to employees, who learned about the closure just a week ago.

The decision to close this location has left many customers disappointed and curious, as the company has yet to disclose the reasons behind the move. Rusty Bucket, which started in Columbus, Ohio, in 2002, has expanded to 20 locations across five states. The chain prides itself on being a "casual American restaurant and tavern" where people can enjoy great food and good company.

Founded by Gary Callicoat, Rusty Bucket is known for its commitment to freshly prepared meals. "We make our menu from scratch because food just tastes better that way," Callicoat has stated. The restaurant's philosophy emphasizes quality and the importance of avoiding shortcuts in cooking.

The closure of the Sarasota location is part of a larger trend of restaurant closures in Florida this year. For instance, Chicken Salad Chick recently shut down its Baymeadows location in Jacksonville after nine years of operation.

Rusty Bucket's Sarasota patrons were informed of the closure via a sign posted at the restaurant. The notice directed customers to the nearest location, which is six miles away, but did not provide an explanation for the abrupt closure.

Local customers expressed their sadness online, with many lamenting the loss of a favorite dining spot. "It was always a great place for a weekday lunch," one customer shared. "So disappointing to see it go."

As Rusty Bucket bids farewell to its Florida patrons, it continues to serve its other locations, maintaining its reputation as a gathering place for good food and good times.