Charleston Says Goodbye to Iconic Rutledge Cab Company
In a surprising turn of events, the vibrant city of Charleston has bid farewell to one of its beloved eateries, Rutledge Cab Company. This cherished spot, known for its mouthwatering burgers and unique ambiance, has permanently closed its doors, leaving many locals and visitors alike with heavy hearts.
A Sudden Announcement
On Monday afternoon, a post on social media alerted fans of the restaurant that they had just a few hours left to grab their favorite meal. The announcement informed patrons that lunch served that very day would be the last time the doors opened at Rutledge Cab Company. The heartfelt message from partner Brad Creger expressed gratitude toward the loyal customers who supported the establishment over the years. “It’s been our honor and privilege to serve our loyal customers. We are grateful for their friendship and patronage,” wrote Creger in the post shared on October 28. Furthermore, he extended his appreciation to the wonderful staff, both past and present, who contributed to the restaurant’s charm.
A Dream Team
The Rutledge Cab Company was more than just a restaurant; it was a labor of love and collaboration among notable figures. Creger partnered up with renowned actor Bill Murray and baseball executive Mike Veeck to transform an abandoned gas station at 1300 Rutledge Ave. into a vibrant dining space. Since opening in 2012, the trio created a hub for delicious food and warm community vibes, becoming a local favorite. Its culinary delights and quirky décor consistently drew in patrons, making it a staple in the Charleston dining scene.
The Future of the Property
While Rutledge Cab Company may have closed its doors, Creger, Murray, and Veeck still hold onto the property. The trio has expressed intentions to find a new tenant to take over the space, stating they look forward to “tossing the keys to a new tenant and watching from the sidelines as the property’s landlord.” This means that while the restaurant is no longer, the legacy will live on in the form of new culinary journeys in this popular location known as NoMo, short for North Morrison. The decision to close Rutledge Cab Company, according to their announcement, will help expedite the search for a fresh dining experience at the site.
What’s Next?
As for why the Rutledge Cab Company closed without much detail on the reasoning behind it or the same-day notice, the specifics remain a mystery. Many regulars and fans are left wondering what led to such a sudden end for a business that seemed to thrive in the moment. Communities are known for rallying together and lifting local businesses, so it would not be surprising if the spot was soon bustling again with a new eatery ready to make its mark.
In Closing
The closure of Rutledge Cab Company marks the end of an era, but it also opens the door to new possibilities for the lively NoMo neighborhood. As Charleston encourages the growth of unique dining experiences, the property at 1300 Rutledge Ave. is poised for its next chapter. Although it’s a bittersweet goodbye for many, the spirit of Rutledge Cab Company will always be fondly remembered by those who dined there and enjoyed the burgers and camaraderie.
