Merrick’s Rabbit Hole Bar & Grill to Close in November, Less Than a Year After Rebrand
The Rabbit Hole Bar & Grill, which reopened under its current name a year ago after previously operating as Anchor Down Seafood Bar & Grill, will be closing on November 17th. Owner Stephen Rosenbluth shared the news on social media, citing rising costs and economic challenges in the post-pandemic era as the main factors behind the decision.
The Rabbit Hole, which made its debut in November 2023, took over from Anchor Down after a rebranding and menu overhaul. The restaurant at 1960 Bayberry Avenue transformed into a gastropub, offering a wide variety of tacos, upscale comfort food, and creative cocktails. Despite positive reception, Rosenbluth stated that it became too difficult to sustain the business in the current financial climate.
“As many of you know, the past few years have brought significant challenges to the restaurant industry,” Rosenbluth wrote. “Due to rising costs and current economic conditions post-pandemic, we’ve faced obstacles that have made it increasingly difficult to keep the business running in the way we’ve always strived for.”
Rosenbluth expressed gratitude to the local community and his loyal staff, who have been with him throughout the restaurant’s transformation. “Their dedication, passion, and hard work have been the backbone of The Rabbit Hole and Anchor Down, and I couldn’t be more proud of the team we’ve built together,” he said.
While the restaurant remains open until mid-November, Rosenbluth encouraged patrons to visit one last time. “It would mean the world to share one last meal and create a few more cherished moments with you,” he added.
For those interested in reading Rosenbluth’s full announcement, it is reposted here:
Dear friends,
It is with a heavy heart that I share the difficult decision to close The Rabbit Hole, formerly Anchor Down. After much reflection, I have come to this point, and while it’s not easy, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for your support over the years.
As many of you know, the past few years have brought significant challenges to the restaurant industry. Due to rising costs and current economic conditions post pandemic, we’ve faced obstacles that have made it increasingly difficult to keep the business running in the way we’ve always strived for. While we remain open, we will continue to operate regularly, upholding the high standards that we have worked so hard to cultivate here.
This journey has been filled with unforgettable moments over the course of ten years, and I am incredibly thankful to have served such a wonderful community. I also want to extend my heartfelt thanks to my incredible staff, who have worked tirelessly and stood by my side through every challenge. Their dedication, passion, and hard work have been the backbone of The Rabbit Hole and Anchor Down, and I couldn’t be more proud of the team we’ve built together.
Though this chapter is ending, the memories we’ve created will always hold a special place in my heart. Our last day of operations will be November 17th, and we truly hope to see many of you before we close our doors. It would mean the world to share one last meal and create a few more cherished moments with you.
Thank you all for being a part of this journey!
Stephen Rosenbluth
Owner
Photo: The Rabbit Hole when it was still Anchor Down. Google Maps.
