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Sunnyside Cafe in Wilmington announced on Facebook that they are closing for good on Friday, June 16 after 23 years in business.
"We need to make way for new apartments," the post read. "We will miss everyone. Most have become friends/family."
Patrons reacted to the news of Sunnyside's closure in the comments section of the cafe's post.
"A big salute to Sunnyside for years of great breakfast and the people who came and went everyday," one person wrote. "Life moves on."
"What an absolute travesty that this happened and the town could not help at all," another person wrote. "I will miss Sunnyside."
Owner Collette Carbone opened Sunnyside in 2000 with the intention of being a family-run diner. Carbone's staff consisted of waitresses Mary and Jean as well as Carbone's daughter Dannah and her daughter until last November, Dannah tells Daily Voice.
Over the years, the team was able to establish Sunnyside as a hidden gem that charmed patrons with their signature dishes and engaging atmosphere.
"I'm an absolute sucker for the hole in the wall, greasy spoon type of place. And this one really does it for me," one Yelp reviewer said. "From the funny sayings all over the walls to the 'hey hun how ya doing?' type of service you'll encounter."
"One of the things you notice when you walk in, besides it being a welcoming little cafe, is the collection of awards for 'best food.' That's not hyperbole. It's great," another reviewer said.
"You get the basics here (with some yummy-looking specials) and they do them well," they added. "My eggs Benedict was delicious. My buddy loved his omelette. Everything hit the spot."
Although Sunnyside's legacy is coming to an end, Collette and Mary are staying in the food industry as they will work for LaRosa's when it opens at Wilmington Plaza in July.
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