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Last week, the beloved Subway Inn, the Midtown East bar that first opened on 60th Street back in 1937, put out a statement on Facebook announcing the owning family’s decision to officially shut down the business before the end of the year, on December 28.
"We understand how much this place has meant to so many of you, and please know that this is not a decision we arrived at lightly," reads the social media post. "he memories we’ve shared, the community we’ve built, and the support we’ve received from each and every one of you have made this journey unforgettable, but unfortunately, the realities we face today have led us to this conclusion."
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Although plenty of folks took to the platform to lament the closure, many did not seem surprised about the news. In fact, since first opening 87 years ago, the business has had to endure multiple shutdowns and relocations.
The bar has been operating out of its current address at 1154 Second Avenue by 61st Street since 2022, facing legal issues related to their liquor license for years.
"Since we officially took over the new location on July 1, 2022, [...] things have never quite been the same," reads the Facebook announcement. "Our dreams of revitalizing this beloved neighborhood bar ran headfirst into a wall of unexpected challenges. [...] The lack of urgency and support from those who should have been helping small businesses rebuild after the devastation of the pandemic made the situation feel even more daunting."
The owners also took the time to muse on the changing lifestyle norms that seem to dominate life in the city in recent times.
"Throughout the last few years, we've seen a shift in the way people live, work and spend their time," they wrote. "The rhythms of the city that once sustained places like Subway Inn no longer feel the same. The vibrant nightlife and bustling atmosphere we relied on have gradually given way to quieter, more introspective times. With fewer people frequenting the bar and restaurant industry in general, our ability to keep up with operational costs and overheads became unsustainable. Despite our best efforts to adapt and innovate, the financial toll became impossible to ignore."
But if there is one thing that the Subway Inn has taught New Yorkers about, it's resiliency—and it is continuing to do so.
Wrapping up their closing announcement, the team specifically mentioned the chances of a relocation.
"We are not giving up hope entirely," reads the message. "We are actively searching for a new location to call home."
We are confident that we will see the iconic Subway Inn neon sign in some other part of the city soon.