Fort Mill’s Local Dish set to close after a decade of serving Southern cuisine
Farm-to-table restaurant Local Dish has been a staple in downtown Fort Mill for the past decade. The Southern eatery opened in June 2012 — and has announced plans to close Friday, May 27.
Restaurant owner John Colwell told CharlotteFive on Tuesday morning that a buyer is lined up; the buyer will rent the space rather than keep the restaurant open.
“This time 10 years ago, we were preparing to open our doors for the first time. We were painting the chairs green, working on the menu and praying about all the big and little things,” Colwell and his wife, Ashley, posted to the restaurant’s Facebook page. “We were nervous that no one would come other than our family, but you showed up! And our decade on Main Street has been incredible.”
Fort Mill diners showed up — in a big way — to the restaurant that helped revitalize Main Street. Less than 24 hours after posting the news, nearly 300 people had left comments on the Facebook post — and more than 850 had reacted to the post. Many responded via Instagram, as well.
“So sad to see you go! We love coming there. The food, the staff, and the service are always fabulous,” Mary Viapiano posted.” “You did so much to elevate the food scene in Fort Mill,” commented Melanie Sills. “Congrats and you’ll be missed!”
“So sad to hear this. Local Dish always has been a “go to” for our family. The food is always delicious and the service is always wonderful. You will be missed but best of luck on your next adventure,” added Christi Shauna.
Saying goodbye with one final meal
The Colwells expect a big crowd over the next week and a half, as customers visit to enjoy chicken pot pie, fried green beans, shrimp and grits and other Southern dishes one final time.
“Tom will miss the pork chop and chicken pot pie,” Kim Cox Anderson posted. “The buttermilk pie will always be my favorite!”
In addition to thanking customers, the Colwells also thanked their staff: “The sadness comes from saying goodbye to our staff, who has become our family. We sure will miss working with our crew, and we owe any success we had to all our great employees throughout the years.”
Staff members returned the sentiment — “best 5.5 years of my life. I appreciate John and Ashley so much,” commented Kyle Cassidy.
Local Dish helped usher in a vibrant era in downtown Fort Mill. Hobo’s opened next door, and they paved the way for other restaurants, as well. Now, the sidewalks are often filled with people walking among options like Amor Artis Brewing, The Improper Pig and Emmet’s Social Table. The Flower Bar is on its way, and other newcomers have opened nearby, including Tip Top Daily Market and Good Life Organic Kitchen.
[RELATED: Need a new favorite? This new Fort Mill shop and, a homecoming owner, may soon have it.]
Local Dish
Location: 217 Main St, Fort Mill, SC 29715
Neighborhood: Fort Mill
Cuisine: Southern
Instagram: @local.dish
Editor’s note: This story is developing and may be updated.
