Family-owned Alabama restaurant closing amid financial struggles: ‘We would love to continue’

The Centre community is set to lose a staple of local dining this weekend. Pop’s Smorgasbord, a family-run establishment in Cherokee County, announced that it will permanently close its doors this Sunday, May 31.

A Difficult Decision

Co-owner Chef Brad Hunter shared the news in a Facebook video update this past Thursday. Joined by his wife and business partner, Brosha Hunter, the chef candidly addressed the financial challenges that necessitated the closure.

According to Hunter, the decision comes down to circumstances beyond the couple's control, specifically regarding the building that houses the restaurant. Despite investing approximately $60,000 of their own capital into the property, the owners were unable to secure the necessary financing to purchase or maintain the facility.

"We would love to keep this going," Hunter said. "Your savings run out. You can put yourself in a bad situation."

A Legacy of Southern Cooking

Since opening in 2022, Pop’s Smorgasbord has become known for its dedication to homemade southern cuisine, offering a popular buffet, salad bar, and a rotating selection of desserts. While the restaurant portion of their business is winding down, the Hunters are not leaving the food industry entirely.

With over three decades of collective experience, the couple plans to focus their energy on their established catering services, which have been a consistent part of their portfolio for over a decade. "We are going to continue to cater and do our catering," Hunter noted.

Final Days

205focus.com readers who wish to visit one last time can catch the restaurant during its final operating hours: Wednesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

For their final day, the owners are looking to celebrate their time in Centre with their loyal patrons. "We’re going to have an amazing bar, tons of desserts. We’re going to have fun, we’re going to smile, we’re going to cut up, we’re going to come out and see you and we’re going to say goodbye," Hunter said.

Though the future remains uncertain, Hunter expressed gratitude for the support of their staff and the surrounding community, adding, "I trust God. I trust what he does in my life."