On Tuesday morning, Ann Perillo, the owner of Joe and Eddies, made the announcement that after 68 years, her beloved restaurant will be officially closing down.
Perillo says, “this was not an easy choice because it is a piece of my heart, but I am ready to hang up my apron.”
In the announcement to her customers, she says, “thank you to Fort Walton Beach and everyone from Alabama and surrounding states.”
As Joe and Eddies has been family-owned and operated since 1954, she says that many special memories have been made. Perillo states, “the amazing people I have met over the past 68 years are friendships I know will last.”
Many customers have expressed their sadness over their favorite local restaurant closing. For decades, Joe and Eddies has been a staple in Fort Walton Beach.
“As most of you know, all of my children and my grandchildren have worked here with me at one time or another,” she said. “I will fondly hold all of those memories and keep them very close to my heart. I just wish I could have lasted for my great grandchildren also.”
Joe and Eddies was well-known for their home cooked meals and service.
In closing, Perillo says that she knows her “husband is looking down on me now, smiling, and saying ‘You got it made’.”
