Last day at Monell's brings bittersweet moments, questions about building's future

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — It's the last day for a community favorite here in town.

Monell's on the Manor closed its doors for the last time at 4:00 Sunday after the airport chose not to renew their lease earlier this year.

The popular restaurant welcomed hundreds in for their last breakfast and lunch.

Hundreds showed up Sunday to marvel at the homestyle cooking, the building's structure, and the history of the place.

The place dates back to 1893, operating as a private club, then a seafood restaurant, before it became a Southern favorite.

"It means a lot to me, ever since I was a little girl. Before it even became Monell's," said Avis Adkins.

"They like the familiarity and they want the history of Nashville and they just enjoy the beauty of it," added Suzanne Henkle, who has worked at Monell's since the day it opened.

"This last day I had to bring my camera and get some parting shots," said Matt Mulroy. "It's a disappearing past. It seems a shame for something with this historic significance to be lost."

"They've allowed us to be part of their family, part of their traditions, part of their graduations," explained the owner of Monell's, Michael King.

King added the future of the building is still unclear. The airport, which owns the property, have yet to announce plans. King says to his knowledge, demolition and physically moving the building are on the table.

Councilman Russ Bradford says the Mayor's office has spoken with preservation-oriented groups and is exploring potential funding to support preservation efforts.

“It’s a part of history that’s going to be gone, and I think we need to preserve our history. It’s not about Monell’s closing that location, it’s about the history that is about to see the wrecking ball," said Customer Jackie Zimmerman.

Keep in mind, the original Monell's location in Germantown is still open and operating as normal.