A Southport restaurant is closing as a lifelong restaurateur plans to retire. Sheila Barbee, owner of Blue Cow Grille, said the eatery at 108 E. Moore St. would close Dec. 17.
"We appreciate our local community, loyal customers and great staff for supporting Blue Cow Grille," she said in a note posted to social media.
Barbee opened Blue Cow Grille in 2018 with husband John. Before that, the couple managed the former Port Charlie's in Southport before opening their own business, Dry Street Pub & Pizza, which now has new owners.
During its eight years in business, Blue Cow Grille has developed a following for its burgers, but the restaurant also offers other sandwiches, salads, tacos and extras like pork rinds. Barbee said she loves the restaurant business, but is
looking forward to spending more time with her family.
She added that tried to sell the restaurant. When that didn't work out, she sold the building.
Meanwhile, new property owner Noah Rudolph is planning to open Southport Donuts & Ice Cream in the space, as well as two other neighboring concepts in the building. At 18, he opened OKI Scoop Shop & Donuts with his father. Ten year's later, he has grown the business to a Carolina Beach location and added Beach Break Bowls in Oak Island.
"We love this area," he said. "We want to invest in what already makes Southport special and hopefully be a positive part of it for a long time."
He said the building dates to 1908, one of his first priorities is doing necessary updates. He added that previous business at the property also sold doughnuts, and is happy to be brining them back.
"We're really trying to keep the charm and character of the buildings while giving each business its own feel," he said.
In addition to the doughnuts, he's also planning to open a new location of Beach Break Bowls as a healthier option on Moore Street. It will offer bowls and smoothies that can be dairy free, gluten free and/or sugar free. A third business is planned as a Southport-focused charm bar and permanent jewelry store. He envisions it as a place to get unique souvenirs and mementos. He is eyeing opening in early 2027.
Allison Ballard is the food and dining reporter at the StarNews.You can reach her at aballard@usatodayco.com.
This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Southport restaurant to close as owner retires in December
