CHARLOTTE, N.C. — After 59 years of business and countless meals, Price's Chicken Coop, Charlotte's iconic fried chicken restaurant, will be closing this weekend.
"It's time," owner Steven Price said Thursday among a crowded lunch rush. "There's a time and a season."
The restaurant initially made the announcement on Facebook Thursday, saying the final day will be Saturday, June 19. The owners cited the current labor shortage and rising food costs as factors in the decision.
"It is with heavy hearts that The Chicken Coop has decided to close our doors after 59 years of business due to the labor shortage, rising food costs, food quality and another coin shortage," the restaurant's Facebook page says.
The post went on to thank customers for their support over the years.
"May God continue to bless you all," the restaurant wrote.
Customers who heard the news, lined up down the street Thursday for one last chance to eat the popular fried chicken.
Price's Chicken Coop closing
Price's Chicken Coop joins a list of locally-owned, small businesses that have closed their doors in Charlotte's Southend neighborhood.
Increasingly the area has experienced the development of high-rise buildings featuring new multi-story residences, retail, and franchise establishments.
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