The iconic restaurant first opened back in 1956.
WOODMERE, Ohio — Corky and Lenny’s Restaurant and Deli — a Northeast Ohio staple — has closed its doors.
3News spotted a sign on the front door Tuesday morning that said the location is closed until further notice “due to staff concerns.”
But despite that sign, a man who says he’s a manager at the restaurant tells 3News the closure is for good.
“Today is a very sad day for Cleveland. Corky and Lenny’s has decided to close permanently,” Adam Siegel tells 3News. “We appreciate all the love from the community, the Jewish community, lots of out-of-towners that have come in and supported us for over 65 years. Unfortunately, we just don’t have the help that we used to have.”
Siegel says their team learned the news about the closure this morning from their boss.
“We’re all very sad today.”
While Corky and Lenny’s first opened in 1956, Siegel says the current location has been in operation since 1973.
“It’s sad to see it end like this, for sure,” he says.
Woodmere Mayor Benjamin Holbert III reacted to the news with the following statement:
It is with a heavy heart that we learn of the somber news about Corky and Lenny’s, an institution that holds a special place in the history of our beloved village. In recent discussions with the ownership, it became apparent that this iconic establishment is facing challenging times. Today marks a poignant moment for all of us who cherish the memories and warmth that Corky and Lenny’s have generously offered over the years.
In these trying times, the hospitality industry, a sector so integral to our community’s fabric, has borne the brunt of the far-reaching effects of the ongoing pandemic. The struggle to attract and retain staff has become an immense hurdle, and Corky and Lenny’s, despite its rich legacy, has not been immune to these difficulties. It is our sincere hope that this setback is merely a temporary chapter in their story, and soon, we can once again revel in the familiar embrace of their hospitality and delicious menu.
To Amanda and Kenny Kurland, the owners, and the entire staff who have poured their hearts into making Corky and Lenny’s a home away from home, our thoughts and well-wishes are with you. Your dedication hast not gone unnoticed, and we stand united in offering our support as you navigate through these challenging times. May brighter days be on the horizon for Corky and Lenny’s, a cherished establishment that has become synonymous with the spirit of Woodmere.
This is a developing story. 3News has more updates coming very soon. Stay with this story as it will be updated shortly.