Loretta’s Café in Asheville to Close After 26 Years

Cafe closure nostalgia illustration

Asheville

Loretta Woolley, the founder of Loretta’s Café, has announced the closure of the beloved downtown eatery after 26 years of serving the community. The café, located at 114 North Lexington Ave., will shut its doors on July 26, marking the end of an era for Woolley and her loyal customers.

A Culinary Journey

Reflecting on the journey that led her to establish Loretta’s Café, Woolley expressed gratitude for the opportunity to provide fast, fresh, and affordable meals to diners. What began as a small sandwich shop on Patton Ave. in 1998 evolved into a bustling cafe on North Lexington, where Woolley’s culinary creations delighted patrons for over a decade.

“It was a sweet venture, and I love doing what I did and meeting customers face-to-face,” Woolley shared. “I never imagined the restaurant would be open for so long, but I am grateful for the experience.”

A Legacy of Flavor

Despite receiving offers to franchise Loretta’s Café, Woolley chose to keep the business close to her heart, preserving its essence and authenticity. In 2003, she ventured into catering before expanding her restaurant portfolio with the launch of Mayfel’s, a Creole/Cajun-inspired eatery that paid homage to her Louisiana roots.

After selling Mayfel’s two years ago and transitioning into retirement, Woolley now looks forward to embarking on new adventures with her husband. As outdoor enthusiasts, the couple plans to explore hiking trails with their dogs and savor the joys of post-retirement life.

A Fond Farewell

As Loretta’s Café prepares to close its doors, customers have expressed their heartfelt sentiments on social media, reminiscing about favorite dishes like Woolley’s signature chicken salad. The outpouring of love and support from the community has touched Woolley, who remains grateful for the years of patronage.

“It’s very emotional. It’s been great. I can’t believe it’s been that long,” Woolley remarked, reflecting on the memories and relationships nurtured through her culinary endeavors.

Looking Ahead

While Loretta’s Café bids farewell to its loyal customers, Woolley remains optimistic about the future. The North Lexington building is up for sale, with potential buyers expressing interest in the property. As Woolley and her husband embrace the next chapter of their lives, they are filled with gratitude for the memories created at the cafe.

Connect with Loretta’s Café

For more information about Loretta’s Café and updates on its closing, visit lorettp://scafe.com and follow them on social media at facebook.com/LorettasCafe/ and @lorettascafe on Instagram.