A first has come for a longtime staple of Atlanta.
The Vortex, a 21-and-up bar known for their burgers and house rules, has temporarily closed its doors amid the coronavirus pandemic.
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In an announcement posted to the eatery's website April 1, the restaurant informed customers that it was "closed for now."
“It is with a heavy heart, we are announcing the temporary closure of both Vortex locations until further notice,” the statement said of the Little Five Points and Midtown spots.
“While we wish this were an ‘April Fools’ joke, unfortunately, it is a sober reality during these unprecedented times. Due to the current circumstances, we have no way of determining when we will reopen, so please check back here for ongoing updates.”
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The notice, which was also posted on The Vortex’s social media pages, also encouraged patrons to avoid touching their faces, wash their hands and “be kind to each other.”
“We hope to see you all again on the other side,” it concluded.
In a statement to What Now Atlanta, owner Michael Benoit said the move was unprecedented.
“The Vortex has been proudly serving the Atlanta community without interruption since 1992,” Benoit said. “We truly appreciate the kindness and support of our loyal fans as we have attempted to continue operating in accordance with government mandates during this unprecedented situation.”
The Vortex opened in Midtown in 1992 after Benoit and his siblings, sister Suzanne and brother Hank, moved from Southern California to Atlanta. By 1996, the trio opened a second location in Little Five Points.
