Cafe' 331 - Article in Todays Paper

It's Official - Cafe 331 closing

http://www.nwfdailynews.com/article/9002

?It?s true,? confirmed 3Thirty1 Caf? owner Oli Petit. ?The 3Thirty1 is closing at the end of September.?

Petit knew it was coming as U.S. 331 was on the state highway department?s list of roads to be widened and speculation circulated around the community on a regular basis as to when it would happen. The general consensus was hopefully later than sooner.

Petit said he found out a month ago.

The popular restaurant is ideally situated on the bay at the southern foot of the 331 bridge.

?I?m devastated,? he said. ?I bought the property in 2002 with the intention of being there forever. But you have to separate emotionally.?

The price he will get from the state for the property has not been determined yet, said Petit.

There is no new location for the restaurant at this time, he said, and he is in no hurry.

?It?s all about finding a location and land costs are so high,? he said.

For the time being, Petit said he will be content to just have The Red Bar in Grayton Beach, which he also owns.

?I have 40-plus employees that work here ? some here since we started.

"Everyone really gets along. Some I will take with me to the Red Bar, but I can?t take all,? he said.

The last day for the restaurant will be Sept. 30.

?There will be a party,? said Petit. ?Local musicians who have played here in the past will play ? Hubba Hubba, Rick Carter, Dread Clampett. Anyone who has enjoyed the place in the past 20 years is invited to come. After that, the landmark will be gone.?