A popular neighborhood restaurant in Bloomfield closed its doors after six years in business.
"The Brookdale" served its final customers Sunday, drawing a steady crowd of regulars who stopped in for one last meal and to say goodbye.
The family-owned restaurant first opened during the COVID-19 pandemic and quickly became a staple in the community.
“We’re proud of the support we got from the community throughout the years, and it just felt like the right time,” said one of the owners.
They described the decision to close as difficult, pointing to the challenges of the restaurant industry.
For employees, the closure marks the end of an era. Peter Kuo, who has worked at "The Brookdale" for more than five years, said the restaurant became a major part of his life.
“Definitely sad. Kind of grew up here...an important chapter of my life,” Kuo said.
Over the years, the space became more than just a place to eat by hosting birthdays, celebrations and even moments of mourning for customers.
While The Brookdale is closing, the owners say they will remain part of the community through their other nearby businesses, Lady Fingers and Fanny’s.