12/15/2020
After prolonged consideration, I have made the heart-breaking decision to permanently close The Mission Restaurant. Our last day of operation will be December 19th. While the pandemic has had a huge impact on business these past months, several other factors have led me to make this difficult choice. I am proud to have served the Syracuse community for nearly 21 years in our unique setting and am grateful for the various awards, accolades and recognition bestowed upon us. The opportunity to host, nurture and connect with our customers will be greatly missed.
21 years is a lifetime in this business, and it would not have been possible without the contributions of so many individuals. I would like to publicly thank the following people:
Julia & Duncan- my kids literally grew up in the business and grew to become two of my greatest supporters.
Derek for all his patience and understanding while putting up with my long hours and frustrations.
The Rothenbergs- Larry & Martin who took a leap of faith and without their generosity, my dream would not have become a reality.
My many employees over the years, especially those who were with me until the end navigating the ups and downs of COVID restrictions; as well as those who were with me until they just couldn’t be any longer but gave years of service.
Marty Dwyer, Andy and all my boys at Andy’s Produce- it really was a pleasure doing business with you all these years. You didn’t just supply me with the ingredients, you supported me by enjoying the fruits of my labors.
Mimi & Motto- my two most trusted friends/advisors. Not only do you always have my back, you are always there to give me your honest opinion… even if I don’t particularly care to hear it.
Marty Blake- whose artistry is matched by her ability to satisfy my last-minute requests.
Winnie Schleider- a dear friend and confidant who also happens to be my attorney.
And most importantly, our customers for keeping the lights on all these years, especially our regulars who gave us the satisfaction of seeing them return again and again.
With a special appreciation to all those who let us cater their weddings, graduations, birthdays, showers, anniversaries, after-parties, and special events. In a crowded field, it was an honor to have been chosen to serve you on those occasions.
There are many others too numerous to mention who deserve recognition for contributing to the longevity, prosperity and originality of the restaurant but nonetheless have a played an important role one way or another and I am indebted to you.
Also, I would like to make a special remembrance of two people who left us far too soon. So much more than managers, they treated the restaurant like it was their own. Rob Dorn and Cathy Richmond were simply two of the best people a boss could ask for and I was lucky to work alongside them for a time.
-Steve Morrison, chef/owner of The Mission Restaurant
