Categories: Business NewsElizabethton, TNNewsRestaurant

Bristol Community Grieves Permanent Closure of Two Restaurants

Local residents gather outside The Blue Circle and Bloom, reflecting on the recent closures that have impacted the community.

News Summary

The Bristol community faces the heartbreaking loss of two beloved restaurants, The Blue Circle and Bloom, as financial struggles lead to their permanent closures. Both establishments, which have been a staple for locals, cite rising costs and unpaid taxes as critical reasons for shutting down. With Bloom’s closure impacting about 60 employees, efforts are underway to support those displaced and reflect on the cherished memories these eateries provided.

Economic Challenges Lead to Permanent Closures of Two Beloved Bristol Restaurants

In the charming towns of Bristol, TN and VA, local residents are mourning the loss of two cherished restaurants, The Blue Circle and Bloom, as financial struggles have driven both establishments to announce their permanent closures.

The Blue Circle: A Short-lived Comeback

Located in the heart of Bristol, TN, The Blue Circle opened its doors under new ownership in January 2024, bringing new life to a beloved local diner. Unfortunately, after only a few months of operation, this nostalgic eatery has made the tough decision to close as of Thursday. The owners have cited a triple threat of increasing labor, food, and overhead costs as the main culprits behind the closure. It seems even a beloved spot isn’t immune to the harsh economic realities facing many restaurants these days.

Bloom: A Bitter End to a Valued Experience

Just a stone’s throw away on the Virginia side of State Street, Bloom will close its doors for good after its last day of service on Sunday, May 5, 2024. Opening in August 2022, Bloom quickly became a local favorite, only to be brought down by significant unpaid taxes. The establishment owes the city of Bristol, VA, a staggering $195,540 in delinquent meals taxes, which ultimately became too heavy of a burden to bear.

Bloom’s tax troubles began back in February 2023 when the restaurant started missing payments after initially covering its dues. Efforts to create manageable payment plans were unsuccessful, resulting in a bank lien being placed against the establishment. This complicated financial situation only worsened when the Bristol City Council voted to increase the meals tax from 7% to 10%, which undoubtedly added pressure to local dining venues like Bloom.

Support for Displaced Employees

Both restaurants have not only been a fixture in the community but have also provided jobs for many locals. With Bloom’s closure impacting approximately 60 employees, General Manager Elaina Raines is taking steps to support her team, actively working to connect staff with new job opportunities. In addition, she is looking into establishing a relief fund to assist the displaced employees during this difficult transition.

Personal Struggles Amid Closure

The impending closures have sparked emotional reactions from employees. For those working at Bloom, the end feels surreal. One employee expressed that the announcement felt like a “very bad dream.” The overwhelming sentiment resonates with many who relied on these places not only for jobs but also for a sense of community.

Understanding the Bigger Picture

The situation in Bristol, VA, highlights a larger issue facing small businesses in today’s economy. With rising costs, stringent taxes, and sometimes overwhelming debts, many eateries find it a challenge to stay afloat. City Treasurer Angel Britt pointed out that the business’s failure to remit taxes collected from customers has compounded the financial difficulties, illustrating just how tight of a spot this beloved restaurant found itself in.

A Community in Mourning

As residents of both Bristol, TN and VA grapple with the news of these closures, it is evident that these restaurants will be sorely missed. The vibrant flavors and warmth of dining at The Blue Circle and Bloom have become ingrained in the local culture. Their absence will undoubtedly leave a void that will take time to fill.

Though it’s a tough time for Bristol’s dining scene, the community is known for its resilience and support of local businesses. As this chapter comes to a close, it brings a renewed sense of nostalgia for the memories shared over meals, laughter, and camaraderie at these once-bustling eateries.