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Magnolia Grill Closing

Karen and Ben Barker
magnoliagrill.net

One of the most well-respected restaurants in the Triangle is closing its doors. Magnolia Grill in Durham has been a culinary powerhouse for 25 years.

Leoneda Inge:  Most people got the word yesterday that the award-winning Magnolia Grill is closing its kitchen for good.  Nick Powell says his family has never had a bad dish at Magnolia Grill.

Nick Powell:  We’re pretty sad to see it go.  Emilee gasped when she read the news.

Emilee Powell:  It’s one of our favorite restaurants.

The Powells rushed to the restaurant to try to get a reservation before Magnolia Grill is scheduled to close on May 31st.  Ben and Karen Barker opened their neighborhood restaurant in 1986 in a converted grocery store.  In a note posted on their website, they thanked their friends, patrons, family, and those they learned from and mentored.  But the note also said they want to re-direct and seek new challenges in order to be successful, vibrant and active old people.  Summer Kauffman stood in line in the heat yesterday trying to get a reservation.

Summer Kauffman:  Yeah we’re really sad to see it go, it’s an institution in Durham.  Just want to enjoy it one last time.

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