Tom Catherall on Here to Serve closings

Chef Tom Catherall Chef Tom Catherall (Photography by Renee Brock/Special)

Credit: Yvonne Zusel

Credit: Yvonne Zusel

Chef Tom Catherall Chef Tom Catherall (Photography by Renee Brock/Special)

Tom Catherall made the following statement on Tuesday evening:

“I am humbled by the outpouring of concern I have received in light of the recent news of Here To Serve Restaurants’ re-organization/temporary closures. Though I am no longer at the helm of the company, I left it in good hands with the over 1000 dedicated employees and the thousands of loyal Friends of Toms who were an integral part of its success.

“Atlanta was my choice to make my home and build my business due in part to the incredible restaurant industry and its dedicated work force. The support I have witnessed from this town to those employees who were caught by the surprise announcement from the new management and the patrons who have indicated a sense of loss to the city, confirms my belief that Atlanta has a great sense of pride and community."

For more context, see Ligaya Figueras' story,  Here to Serve restaurant closings mark end of Atlanta empire .