3-D Eats X owner closes westside sit-down restaurant with plans to convert into event space

Pensacola’s 3-D Eats X location at 6881 U.S. Highway 98 E. has closed its doors as a sit-down, full-service restaurant .

3-D Eats founder Sean DeSmet opened the westside restaurant in August with expanded menu offerings beyond what was offered at his others fast-service location at 3200 North Pace Boulevard. The new location even offered a special “3-D’s Taste of Chicago” menu section with Chicago style dogs and Italian beef sandwiches.

DeSmet broke the news of the closure on social media this month and thanked customers for their support.

“I'll be the first to admit I made a judgment error in thinking bigger was better and if I make it they will come, adding the stress of staffing a consistent team that works with synergy … Very tough code to break, that and also trying to maintain the quality 3-D is known for,” DeSmet wrote on the 3-D Eats Facebook page. “Our niche is not a full service place, it's bring the dynamite to the masses and blow up!!”

However, DeSmet has a five-year lease on the building, and plans to repurpose the former restaurant as an event space.

“This is definitely not the end for 3-D Eats X as we have a full service food license and beer and wine and liquor license, we will be hosting great RSVP events, the big games, dinner and a movie on the big screens, bingos, trivia, bike and car nights,” he continued. “We also will be ramping up our catering offerings, event hall rentals.”

The first bike night is planned from 5-8 p.m. on Nov. 16 presented by 850Bikes and Gulf Coast Bike Life.

"Come enjoy the bikes, the food, and the beer! We will have limited bar service along with pizza, burgers, nachos, hot dogs, cheesesteaks, and loads more!," the 3-D Eats event page states. "Law Tigers will have a table set up where you can interact with those that fight for biker rights here in Florida. Please be sure to stay within the 3D parking lot and be sure to tip your waitresses!"

The good news is, you can still get your 3-D Eats fix at the 3-D Eats Hub location at 3200 North Pace Boulevard, which opened in October 2023 . The location offers all the fast-casual favorites DeSmet is known for, such as his hand-shaved ribeye cheesesteaks, pickle-brined chicken and signature Southern-style sweet tea slush. However, all the food is served to-go. You can also keep an eye out for DeSmet's mobile 3-D Eats bus, which varies in location.

For real-time updates and information, follow 3-D Eats & Tea Pensacol a on Facebook.

This article originally appeared on Pensacola News Journal: 3-D Eats X owner closes westside sit-down restaurant with plans to convert into event space