Porch Light Latin Kitchen Closes For Good

SMYRNA, GA — The porch light was turned off for good last week, as Porch Light Latin Kitchen closed its doors permanently after nearly six years of serving the Smyrna community.

The popular Puerto Rican restaurant, chef-owned by Andre Gomez and located at 300 Village Green Circle, announced the closure via social media Oct. 7.

"My family and I have made the hard decision this week to close the restaurant. At this time, we feel this is the best decision for the business and our family," the post reads. "We want to say how grateful we are to my staff for all of the hard work, and all of you who helped make my dream a reality."

Gomez said the primary reasons for the closure included the overall difficulties of the restaurant industry, which were only exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as a desire to spend more time with family, he told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution.

He insinuated in the social media post, and to the AJC, that he may open Porch Light in a different location in Smyrna at some point in the future, but he'll be focusing on being present with family and regrouping after the last few years.

"My family and I met so many strangers who turned into wonderful friends and we are so thankful," Gomez said in the closure announcement. "This is not a goodbye because we know the Porch Light will be back on in the future."

Gomez will still make and sell salsas and burritos under his Jose Sucio brand, which he's been selling at locations of Stout Brothers beer shops, the AJC reported.