Introduction to Lucille’s American Cafe
Lucille’s American Cafe, a comfort-food institution in Weston, has been a safe haven for its patrons since 1999. It became a sanctuary for snowbirds after the Sept. 11 attacks and a haven for regulars during the COVID-19 era. The cafe has been serving up mouthfuls of nostalgia, making it a beloved spot in the community.
Uncertainty Surrounding the Cafe’s Future
The future of Lucille’s American Cafe is unclear after the owners, Paul and Beth Nunez, announced via Facebook that the cafe would close at the end of August. The reason cited was a disagreement with the landlord over higher rents and upgrades to the restaurant’s aging kitchen and bathrooms. However, in a recent interview with the South Florida Sun Sentinel, the owners revealed that negotiations are underway for a potential last-minute reprieve.
A customer orders from the to-go window at Lucille’s American Cafe in Weston on Monday, Aug. 18, 2025. The retro comfort-food institution has been open since 1999.
Ongoing Negotiations
The owners, Paul and Beth Nunez, are set to meet with the landlord to discuss the potential renewal of their lease. Beth Nunez expressed her desire to refresh the bathrooms and kitchen, which are in need of upgrades due to the building’s age. She also expressed her sadness and sense of responsibility to the community, stating that she feels like they are letting the community down.
Community Reaction
The news of the potential closure has sent shockwaves through the community, with longtime regulars expressing their sadness and confusion. The mood in the dining room was somber, with customers whispering and pointing at a chalkboard sign announcing the planned closure. Customer Dorothy Henry, who has been coming to the cafe for 15 years, expressed her hope that the cafe would survive, citing the welcoming staff and good, comforting food.
History and Significance of Lucille’s
Lucille’s American Cafe is one of Weston’s oldest restaurants, with a history spanning 26 years. The cafe has been a staple in the community, serving up classic comfort food dishes such as marinated skirt steak, baby back ribs, and meatloaf in mushroom gravy. The cafe’s throwback 1940s soda shop atmosphere, complete with checkered floors, plush vinyl booths, and blue-plate specials, has made it a beloved spot for comfort-food disciples.
Conclusion
The future of Lucille’s American Cafe remains uncertain, with ongoing negotiations between the owners and the landlord. The community is holding out hope that the cafe will survive, citing its significance as a comfort-food institution and its importance to the community. As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: Lucille’s American Cafe has left an indelible mark on the community, and its potential closure would be deeply felt.
FAQs
Q: Why is Lucille’s American Cafe potentially closing?
A: The owners, Paul and Beth Nunez, announced that the cafe would close due to a disagreement with the landlord over higher rents and upgrades to the restaurant’s aging kitchen and bathrooms.
Q: Are there any ongoing negotiations to save the cafe?
A: Yes, the owners are set to meet with the landlord to discuss the potential renewal of their lease.
Q: How has the community reacted to the news?
A: The community has expressed sadness and confusion, with longtime regulars expressing their hope that the cafe would survive.
Q: What is the significance of Lucille’s American Cafe to the community?
A: Lucille’s American Cafe is one of Weston’s oldest restaurants, with a history spanning 26 years, and has been a staple in the community, serving up classic comfort food dishes and providing a welcoming atmosphere.
