Bert and Ernie’s has officially closed.

Janet Neil, the restaurant owner, told The Electric this afternoon that “contrary to all the speculation and rumors, it was simply an extremely difficult business decision I had to make, after which I took some very much needed time to digest this experience and what it means to me.”

She said that after eight years, she has mixed emotions about the decision.

The restaurant at the corner of 1st Avenue South and 3rd Street South closed suddenly last week.

Bert and Ernie’s is closed

Neil said she’s working with the previous owner, Phil Kiser, to find a new owner “that will take this location into its next phase of life, whatever that may be. We are both excited for the future and we hope to see this space evolve into a business that helps keep downtown vibrant and alive.”

Neil said that though the closure is the end of a dream for her, “I want to deeply thank everyone for all the support and the love they have shown me during this time. I deeply appreciate it and I am ready for the next chapter.”