Iconic New Bedford Restaurant Freestones Announces Its Immediate Closure

In a surprising Facebook post, a New Bedford landmark has announced its suddenly closing. Freestones City Grill posted the following on Facebook earlier this evening:

“To all of our valued guests, it’s with a heavy heart that we are announce that we are closing down Freestones City Grill effective immediately. We appreciate each and every one of you that have visited and continued to do so over the past few years. To our staff, we apologize that we weren’t able to keep things going, you’ve all worked really hard and we appreciate all that you’ve done. Thank you all.
As of right now, we’re still working to figure a few things out. Keep an eye out for announcements regarding gift cards. Thank you for your understanding and patronage throughout the years.”

Freestones has gone through several ownership changes in the last 5 years and at least two different renovations. We had recently heard from a few staff members that had their hours cut and that the restaurant was struggling. No one expected its sudden closure however. Downtown businesses have seen a noticeable drop in traffic with the Zeiterion Theater closed for a multi year renovation project.

The restaurant first opened its doors in 1979 and quickly established itself as a downtown destination. Prior to the current ownership group taking over it was closed for over a year for renovations. Hopefully someone can return the establishment to its former glory.