Restaurant Closing Means Lost Jobs For Student Workers

The following article is by Mercedes Slawter, a senior journalism student at Salem State University.

When the award-winning 62 Restaurant and Wine Bar shuts its doors next month, the Salem community will do more than lose a popular, Zagat-rated nightspot. Twenty-five workers, including eight Salem State students, will be out of work.

“I worked at 62 for six months and I loved it,” said student Whitney Roche. “I worked with great people, got the hours I needed, and [had] a steady pay check to pay bills and my tuition; now I have to dig into my savings.”

The restaurant, located in the heart of Salem on Pickering Wharf, recently announced it will shut its doors for good on October 3. Just after a eight short years, Chef-Owner Antonio Bettencourt said he is ready for something new.

“I was 34 years old and it was a scary, big deal for me to open my own place,” Bettencourt remembered. “62 was and still is a dream come true. I am grateful for those I have gotten to know, but I am ready to go on a new adventure.

The restaurant has 20 tables and can seat up to 24 people at the bar. While not large in size, the eatery is known for its big flavors in food.

Student employees said they are nervous about finding work, and that they are also saddened.

Some have been with 62 for years; their entire college career. Located only about a mile away from campus, it offers a prime job for a college student.

“Three years of my life, three of the best years throughout college. 62 is my family and knowing these are my last few weeks are terrifying,” said Helen Amore.

Full disclosure: The author is currently the manager of 62.

You can read more articles from the Salem State University Journalism Program online here. >>>