Truth Restaurant Closes For Good, Property For Sale
JOLIET, IL — A sit-down Joliet restaurant that remained closed during the new coronavirus health crisis announced on Memorial Day that it's shutting down for good. Representatives of Truth Restaurant, 808 W. Jefferson St., posted the news on their Facebook page.
The Truth restaurant property has been for sale during the past several weeks on the commercial real estate website, LoopNet. Two retail buildings are available for a total of $499,000.
A total of 6,567 people had checked-in on Truth's Facebook page over the years. The restaurant's slogan was: "Where Great Food and People Meet."
"I said goodbye to our staff on a Zoom meeting. There were no hugs, no toasting or raising glasses like I had imagined," one of Truth's owners, Kate Mohundro, of Joliet, informed her social media followers Monday.
"We opened Truth in 2003. I was 34 years old with high expectations of what the restaurant would be; what it would look like; how would it change my life? 17 years later it has been the greatest gift and heartache," she added.
In Monday's long Facebook farewell post, Mohundro noted, "We thank you for the endless laughs and joy that all of you have brought to our lives. We are proud to have been part of the fabric that truly exemplifies small businesses everywhere.
"We hope you will remember Truth fondly with a grin — that's how we'll remember all of you," With gratitude, Kate.
By Sunday night, dozens of patrons from over the years posted their reaction on Truth's Facebook, including Joliet City Councilwoman Jan Quillman.
"Kate Truth was/is the best and you and your staff made it so," Quillman posted on Facebook. "Always outstanding food and when you entered you felt like you were just going to a friends house for dinner. I remember your kindness and compassion when we had my Moms funeral lunch. Also Toms Mom birthday parties she loved your Lobster Mac and Cheese. You will be missed more than you know. Good luck to you and Doug in whatever new adventure you pursue. On a side note I always wanted your recipe for truffle potato salad. I have not been able to duplicate it. It always went so well will your mini tenderloin sliders that was awhile ago but always stood out in my taste buds. Thank you for everything! God Bless! Sincerely the Quillmans!"
Here's a sampling of additional comments people posted on Truth's Facebook thread:
"I am heart broken. Your restaurant holds so many wonderful memories of family and friends, including my mother’s 90th birthday celebration. The food, atmosphere, and staff was always first rate. You were unique to the Joliet community offering outstanding culinary dishes in an intimate setting. I am so sorry you have to close your doors ... I’m sure this is exceptionally difficult. Just know that you did it right ... it was unforgettable, and will always remain in our memories as a very special place."
"Kate, I have had so many enjoyable experiences at Truth, happy memories and great meals. We have had family events there including the announcement of Mike and Kathy’s marriage and my Dad’s 80th birthday party. I have attended professional seminars, showers, a wine tasting, dropped in for drinks, and dined with friends innumerable times. We always seem to run in to friends while we were at Truth. You will be missed."
"I am so incredibly sad. So many great memories and of course delicious meals here. Its mine and my parents favorite place • it was our spot. Going to miss everyone • Stacey, Kim, Jason, Terri • Thank u for everything! I'm grateful we were able to celebrate NYE this past year and have one last meal via curbside. Really going to miss this place and the unbelievable staff. I wish u all the best and I hope our paths cross again."
"Thank you for creating a space that always felt safe and warm, a place to share our grief and happiness together. Truth was a magical place for many of us. We will always be grateful for you."
This article originally appeared on the Joliet Patch
