Customers pack Blacksburg Famous Anthony's for final day

BLACKSBURG (WSLS 10) - Diners packed Famous Anthony's restaurant in Blacksburg on Tuesday as it opened for breakfast and lunch for the final time.

The restaurant was busy all day after the family owned and operated chain announced that Tuesday would be its last day. Owners said they were unable to renew their lease with the property owner.

BLACKSBURG FAMOUS ANTHONY'S TO CLOSE TUESDAY

Many the customers who stopped by Tuesday were regulars. Most shared stories of meeting friends at the casual restaurant for meetings or for breakfast every morning.

"I'm going to break out in tears," said Phyllis Albritton. "In the first place, this reminds me of the restaurants I grew up with in upstate New York. It's a family environment. You're always welcome," she said.

Dozens of people made it a point to stop in after learning of the closing.

"We have a lot of regulars that we see every day, talk to them every day for the last five years," said VP of Operations Bonny Viar. "It's sad to see them come in and know that we're not gonna be able to see them anymore, but the support is really appreciated."

Famous Anthony's remaining restaurants across Roanoke and in Lynchburg will not be impacted by the Blacksburg closing.