CORTEZ — Famous for its live music, old Florida feel, and first-rate seafood, the Cortez Kitchen shocked the community when it abruptly announced its closing over the weekend.
Located on the north end of Sarasota Bay in the historic fishing village of Cortez, the restaurant has been a staple of the area for more than two decades. When rumors began to swirl over social media that Sunday would be its final day of operation, the outpouring of disappointment from regulars was immediate.
The Herald Tribune reported on Sunday that restaurant owner Joe Oelker had declined comment on the closing, noting only that he was not well and planned to retire in order to better look after his sick mother.
The article added that property owner John Banyas, a native and 4th generation fisherman who also owns and operates the Swordfish Grill next door, said he had planned to take over the operation at some point and that while it will likely be closed for "a month or two," it would be back open in time for season.
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