After more than a decade of serving burgers, quesadillas and locally‑crafted brews, Nashville’s 51 North Taproom will close its doors on Dec. 13. Owner Will Shuff said the decision comes after years of mounting expenses that have made the operation unsustainable.
From a personal passion to a neighborhood staple
Shuff’s love of food and beer began as a personal hobby. “It was just kind of a passion. I love beer and cooking,” he told reporters. That enthusiasm led to the opening of the original 12 South Taproom, a neighborhood spot that for 20 years offered a casual place to grab a burger or a drink. In 2017, Shuff expanded the concept to The Nations, launching 51 North Taproom.
Rising costs and pandemic fallout
While the 12 South location closed in May after a brief final run, 51 North has struggled to recover from the pandemic’s impact. Shuff noted that the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) helped keep a skeleton crew on payroll, but “that support could only go so far.” Since then, labor wages, food prices, repairs and rent have all increased sharply.
“Labor costs have gone up. Rent, you know, has gone up. Our lease is coming to an end at the end of the year. And now we just can’t afford it. It’s just not sustainable,” Shuff said.
Community impact and final weeks
Shuff emphasized that independent restaurants like his shape the character of a neighborhood. “I grew up here, and the small businesses are what make a town unique,” he said, urging patrons to visit during the remaining weeks.
To help staff and the business during the wind‑down, the taproom is encouraging customers to purchase gift cards and merchandise as holiday gifts. “Come out for the food and beer, but also to support the people who helped make the taproom what it is,” Shuff added.
Broader challenges for local eateries
The closure reflects a larger trend affecting small‑business owners across Middle Tennessee. Higher operating costs and lingering pandemic effects have forced many independent restaurants and bars to reevaluate their viability.
Local entrepreneurs and community leaders continue to call for policies that reduce regulatory burdens and provide more stable support for small businesses, arguing that preserving these establishments is essential to maintaining the unique flavor of Nashville’s neighborhoods.
What’s next for Shuff?
Shuff did not disclose any immediate plans after the taproom’s closure, but he expressed gratitude for the loyalty of his customers and staff. “We’ll focus on making memories for the people who have been with us,” he said, hinting that the final weeks will be a celebration of the taproom’s legacy.
Original reporting: NewsChannel 5 WTVF (Scripps) – local — read the source article.
