In one of the saddest posts I think I’ve ever had to make, I’m reporting that Mary Haglund, founder and co-owner of Mary’s Gourmet Diner, along with Michael and Michelle Millan, has announced that Mary’s Gourmet Diner is now officially closed.

Mary’s Gourmet Diner

To say that I’m sad is a bit of a double-edged sword and may not be the right word.

I am sad that Mary’s is closing, but I am inspired, uplifted and smiling at the way Mary announced it. She has started her own video series called “Voices of Winston” and today, she was her own guest. Mary gave a history of her involvement in the restaurant which I’ll save for Michael Hastings as he’ll do a better job of that. But, her delivery was poised and while she is sad, you could see great relief in her face and in her voice.

There are many, many memories at Mary’s that Stephanie and I share (including Stephanie actually helping on the opening waitstaff) and that’s something I may reflect on at a later date. I’m still trying to process this.

I knew it was probably coming as there had been no activity in Mary’s for a while and Michael had no updates for me. There have been losses with this pandemic, but this one may sting extra deep. The other side is I know the only alternatives would have been to perhaps turn Mary’s into anything and everything Mary didn’t want it to become. This way, she goes out on top, with style, grace and on her terms (mostly).

Mary Haglund, we love you and know you’re going to do fantastic things, still.

Michael Millan does own the Mojito Mobile Kitchen and has started that back up.

Stay tuned to see what wonderous things that will come from both Mary and Michael.

You can watch the video announcement here.