Bongo Cafe on Bay Avenue Closing Sept. 13

The Bongo Cafe and Grille is closing permanently on Sept. 13, according to a post on the business’s Facebook page.

The owners say construction on Bay Avenue earlier this year put a strain on their business. The issue was addressed by Ocean City Council earlier this spring, with Councilman Keith Hartzell encouraging residents to frequent the Bay Avenue businesses whenever possible.

“We all have our favorite places we go to, but these businesses have been experiencing a downturn, so if you have the opportunity and you’re in the area, go to one of these businesses,” Hartzell said at the time. “They’ve had a tremendous loss and whether you go there could make a difference in whether they succeed or fail.”

The owners added that more work is scheduled for the fall and winter, so they have decided to leave Ocean City.

“We will be living in Pennsylvania while we look for our next adventure, spending lots of time with family and friends,” the owners said in their post. ”We want to thank you all for the love and support over the last 3 1/2 years! We had a blast and have made many, many lasting friendships! Hope to see you at our next place!!”

Reaction to the post ranged from people expressing that they will miss Bongo’s breakfast options and vegan/vegetarian meals to ”You guys should write a cook book!”

Bongo Cafe and Grille opened at 1050 Bay Avenue in Ocean City in October of 2011.