Drago's Seafood Restaurant, a popular eatery in Lafayette, is set to close on February 17 due to tough economic times. The restaurant, which has been a local favorite for over six years, will start winding down its operations this week.
From Tuesday onwards, Drago's will only be open for dinner between 5 PM and 9 PM. The closure was announced by the owners, who pointed to the challenging economic environment in the restaurant industry as the main reason for shutting down their Lafayette location at 3151 Johnston St.
This marks the end of Drago's Seafood's journey in Lafayette, which began as an extension of its New Orleans-based operations.
Drago's Seafood Restaurant Falls to Economic Pressures
In a recent statement, the owner of Drago's Seafood Restaurant, Tommy Cvitanovich, explained that the closure of their Lafayette location is a part of a larger trend affecting local eateries. Financial difficulties, including rising food costs, have hit the restaurant industry hard. Over 20 restaurants in the Lafayette area have had to close their doors in the past year alone.
Drago's, which opened a new site in Lafayette on September 12, 2017, is now amongst those affected by these challenges. Cvitanovich shared in the release, "We learned a lot about the culture and the people of this area. We held on for as long as we could. But unfortunately, the current economic conditions can only support so many restaurants, and the only option left is to close the Lafayette location."
The restaurant has been a notable part of Lafayette's dining landscape for over six years. Cvitanovich recalled their initial enthusiasm, saying, "We came to Lafayette with great confidence that we could enhance the seafood offerings in Acadiana."
However, he noted that a combination of a slow start, the impact of COVID, and the significant rise in food and operating costs proved to be overwhelming obstacles for the establishment.
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Drago's Joins Over 20 Closed Lafayette Eateries
The recent announcement of Drago's Seafood Restaurant closing its Lafayette branch adds to a growing list of over 20 local establishments that have closed in the past year. The owner, Cvitanovich, took the opportunity to express his deep gratitude to the Acadiana community and local partners for their unwavering support during their operation.
In a move to support its staff, Drago's has offered positions to the employees of the Lafayette location at their other restaurants in Baton Rouge and Metairie. This gesture aims to ease the transition for the team amidst the closure.
Additionally, the restaurant has assured its customers that gift cards will be accepted at the Lafayette branch until its closing date. After this date, these gift cards will remain valid and can be used at Drago's other locations.
The announced closure of Drago's Seafood Restaurant has sparked discussions on social media about what will replace it. This development comes as nearby businesses like Red's expand and Jet Coffee occupies the former Johnston Street Java spot.
With Moncus Park's opening and other local successes, the area remains a hub of activity, fueling speculation about the next occupant of Drago's prominent location. Possibilities range from another restaurant to different ventures, including car washes. The community eagerly awaits the unveiling of what's next for this prime spot.
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