Crown Heights favorite The Glady will close its doors for good after service on Friday, June 14, ending a ten-year run at 452 Franklin Ave. The closure was announced Tuesday evening by owner Michael Jacober, citing unsustainable operating costs.

The Glady has defined Caribbean dining in Crown Heights since it opened in 2014 at 452 Franklin Ave, drawing crowds nightly for its jerk chicken and rum cocktails. Owner Michael Jacober broke the news on Instagram late Tuesday, writing that “the time has come to say goodbye” after a difficult post-pandemic recovery and ballooning fixed expenses.

Neighbors and regulars streamed by the Franklin Avenue storefront Wednesday morning, with many expressing shock at the sudden announcement. Local resident and longtime customer Simone Joseph, who lives on St. Marks Avenue, called The Glady “the centerpiece of our block” and said, “Friday’s going to be packed — everyone wants one last plate.”

The Glady isn’t the only restaurant in Crown Heights feeling the squeeze: according to a 2023 report from Brooklyn Chamber of Commerce, commercial rents in the area rose 17% in the last two years. Jacober told NYC Pulse, “We’ve fought to stay, but between rent, utilities, and food prices, we can’t make it work anymore.”

The Glady’s final dinner service will be Friday night, with no plans for relocation or pop-ups announced. Jacober said staff will stay on through the last hurrah, and guests can expect the signature jerk chicken, saltfish, and classic rum punch right up until closing.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is The Glady’s last day of service?

The Glady will serve its last customers on Friday, June 14, 2024. The restaurant will close its doors for good after final dinner service that night at 452 Franklin Ave in Crown Heights.

Why is The Glady closing?

Owner Michael Jacober cited unsustainable operating costs as the reason for closing, including higher commercial rents, increased food prices, and lingering impacts from the pandemic years. The restaurant had struggled to remain profitable despite strong neighborhood support.

What will happen to The Glady’s staff?

According to Jacober, all current staff will remain employed through the final service on Friday. There are no announced plans for relocation or pop-up events, but Jacober said he would assist workers in finding positions elsewhere in Brooklyn’s restaurant scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is The Glady closing?

The Glady will close after its final dinner service on Friday, June 14, 2024.

Why is The Glady closing?

Owner Michael Jacober cited unsustainable operating costs, including higher commercial rents, increased food prices, and lingering impacts from the pandemic.

Where is The Glady located?

The Glady is located at 452 Franklin Ave in Crown Heights, Brooklyn.

What will happen to The Glady’s staff after closing?

All current staff will remain employed through the final service, and owner Michael Jacober said he would assist workers in finding new positions.

Is The Glady planning to relocate or do pop-ups after closing?

There are no announced plans for relocation or pop-up events after The Glady closes.

Editorial Transparency. A first draft of this story was produced with AI-assisted writing tools, then reviewed for accuracy and tone by the named editor before publication. More on our process: Editorial Policy.