Safe Harbor Cafe in Castine will be closing for the season soon, the business announced Monday on Facebook.
The takeout food stand on a town-owned pier has become a local institution where residents and visitors can enjoy a simple summer meal while taking in the view of the scenic harbor. Julia Cooper, a Castine native who worked at the stand as a teen, and Jody Mabus took over operations in 2023.
“This has not been an easy decision, but with limited help, rising costs, and the demands of being a mom to two kids in different schools, [Cooper] has little choice,” the post said.
According to the post, Cooper will open the cafe sporadically on a “play it by ear” basis, and patrons should look for the open flag outside.
Cooper will continue to do catering all winter, according to the post.
Correction: A previous version of this story misstated that Safe Harbor Cafe is closing down. It is just closing for the season.