Downtowner Woodfire Grill, located in St. Paul, is preparing to shut its doors after nearly four decades. The restaurant owner announced the closure on social media and stated that the restaurant is closing because of his retirement. It will serve its final customers on Sunday, May 17.
Downtowner Woodfire Grill to Serve Final Meal This Sunday
A longtime community favorite, Downtowner Woodfire Grill is known for its mix of Persian-inspired dishes and American bistro fare. Located at 253 7th St W, St. Paul, it offers a warm atmosphere and a casual dining experience with lively music. Some of the recommended items on the menu are lamb chops, buffalo shrimp, and fire-roasted beef tenderloin.
The restaurant team announced the permanent closure on social media. With a heartbreaking post, the restaurant team wrote, “It is with great sadness that we announce we will be respectfully closing our doors permanently this Sunday, May 17.”
The team thanked the community for its support and said, “St. Paul is an extraordinary city, and it has been our honor to be part of this community. We hope the next torchbearer will continue a meaningful legacy in this space.”
The Downtowner Woodfire Grill team invites the community to stop in before its final day. “We invite you to join us one last time this week. Our final service will be Sunday, May 17,” read the post.
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Following the closure announcement, several loyal patrons of the Downtowner expressed their disappointment on social media. “One of our favorite spots, from breakfast (corned beef hash) to special occasions and everything in between. We will greatly miss you, Moe and Downtowner!”, one customer commented
Moe Sharif’s Retirement Brings Closure to St. Paul Restaurant
According to the announcement, the restaurant is closing because longtime owner Moe Sharif has decided to retire. Downtowner Woodfire Grill was founded by Sharif in 1988 as a small diner.
Reflecting on Sharif’s journey, the restaurant team highlighted, “After 38 incredible years, our owner, Moe Sharif, has decided to retire. Moe first opened the doors of the Downtowner in 1988, when it was still an old diner, and later renovated the space in 2000 following the construction of the Xcel Energy Center. For nearly four decades, he has proudly served the St. Paul community with dedication and heart.”
They also pointed out that even though Sharif is retiring, he will play an active role in the St. Paul community. They said, “As many of you know, he’s not one to sit still—he plans to spend more time with family and friends, do some traveling, and help out at Burger Moe’s with his son, Eddy. So, if you’re hoping to see him, you may still catch him there from time to time.”
With its final day approaching, Downtowner Woodfire Grill aims to celebrate a memorable final week with the community.
