Grace Manor has shuttered. In a letter sent to supporters of her restaurant, located at 1801 N. Main St., in Edwardsville, Ill., chef-owner Debra Grace explained that the closure was effective as of yesterday, September 5. The restaurant opened in mid-2010 after Grace took over an 1850s-era house, formerly occupied by the Klingel House Tea Room. Michael Renner reviewed Grace Manor in the November 2010 issue of Sauce.
Grace did not specify the reason for the sudden closure and The Scoop has been unable to reach her for comment. However, lack of business may have been a factor. In the letter, Grace thanks patrons for their past support and asks them to “please support our local economy, it’s truly the main stay [sic] for this community.” Grace was known for doing just that, locally sourcing many of her products such as the honey in this warm squash salad (pictured). Her note continued, “The next time you want to go on a great adventure, venture into our communities, and shop at an independent store, business, or restaurant. You’ll be able to experience something different and unique, a place with personality, a place where the owners and staff know your name.”
— Photo by Laura Miller
This article appears in September 2012.