Local

Athens landmark restaurant to close after 30 years

ATHENS, Ga. — A landmark restaurant that has been in business for more than 30 years plans to soon close its doors.

Owner Dexter Weaver told Channel 2 Action News on Tuesday he can't afford to keep the restaurant open.

Since Weaver announced he’s closing, old fans have returned.

“I want to come every day until they close so I have a chance to try everything again at least one more time,” said diner James Sewell.

Weaver said he’ll keep the restaurant open until the interest fades or the building sells.

The restaurant is so popular Athens rock band R.E.M. named one of its albums after Weaver's slogan, "Automatic for the People."