Scott's Grille, located on Locust Street in downtown Harrisburg, closed over the weekend, after nearly two decades of being in business. CBS 21 News was unable to reach the restaurant's owner, but we did speak to owners of neighboring restaurants who say business has slowed down a bit.
Nick Laus, owner of Cafe Fresco on Second Street, says he has seen fewer customers during the lunchtime hours. Laus attributes the decrease in business, not only to the slow economy, but also to this year's budget stalemate. He says some people are worried about job stability and that has them spending less.
CBS 21 News contacted the president and CEO of the Pennsylvania Restaurant Association who told us the profit margin is so slim right now that we can expect to see more restaurants closing.
Laus says he believes restaurant row is here to stay and he's optimistic the holiday season will give business a boost.