Oatley's Family Restaurant In North Kingstown Closes Down
NORTH KINGSTOWN, RI — The announcement that Oatley's Family Restaurant in North Kingtown will close after 44 years due to the impact of the coronavirus health crisis has brought out an outpouring of well wishes and fond memories among dedicated customers.
Jill Oatley posted on Facebook Tuesday that "COVID has pushed us to this decision" that she called a "bittersweet ending."
"The era of Oatley's has come to a close," she posted on the Our Town: North Kingstown discussion group.
She invited fans of the restaurant to share their memories, with 213 comments flooding in within 18 hours.
"A true icon fomenting an era of wonderful foods and atmosphere in South County," Elizabeth P White posted. "You will be sorely missed, leaving a hole that I’m sure will not be filled any time soon. Wonderful food, including the very RI specific jonnycake, made just saying the name Oatley's bring a smile to those in the know. Thank you for maintaining high standards and friendliness in an age of deteriorating both; you will not be forgotten."
"Getting johnnycakes with my girls and having good mom/daughter time was something I truly cherished," Natalie Coletta posted. "I'm crushed for all of us. You are so very important to us as a
community."
"Thank you for the good South County food & atmosphere," Cynthia Davis posted, "so unique & hard to find these days. Good Luck & Bright Blessings in your new adventure. You will be missed!"
This article originally appeared on the North Kingstown Patch
