Popular Montgomery cafe vows to keep serving after owner’s death: ‘We will make it through this’

The Montgomery community is grieving the loss of a local culinary fixture following the passing of Gail Royal, the owner of Gail’s Down the Street Café.

A Legacy on Zelda Road

Royal, who had been courageously battling cancer, passed away this past Friday. Her ownership of the popular Zelda Road establishment dates back to 1993, anchoring the community for over three decades, according to WSFA.

Continuing the Tradition

Despite the heartbreak, the team at Gail’s Down the Street Café has announced that the restaurant will remain open for business. In a statement released on social media, staff members expressed both their sorrow and their commitment to the future.

“We will surely miss her, but are relieved that she’s no longer in pain and is in Heaven,” the statement shared. “It’s been a very difficult few months, but with your help, we’ve made it through those hard times.”

As the cafe moves forward, management emphasized the importance of community support for the beloved meat-and-three spot. “The cafe will remain running as we have been and we’d appreciate your continued support. It is shocking, to say the least, but we will make it through this, as well,” the restaurant noted. “Thank you for all the thoughts, prayers, and outpouring of kind words about Gail. They are very much appreciated. Hopefully we’ll see you Monday for lunch.”