The Cedars House, a cafe situated on Forbidden Drive in the Wissahickon Valley Park, has announced its permanent closure on March 23, expressing concerns about rising business costs and deferred maintenance.

The Local reached out to The Cedars House, but the cafe was not interested in speaking to the press at this time.

According to Cari Feiler Bender, president of Relief Communications, the Fairmount Park Conservancy (FPC) leased the building to Devon Arms LLC for 15 years in 2010. Devon Arms decided not to renew the lease, in turn ending their arrangement with The Cedars House.

In a statement to the Local, the FPC wrote, “We deeply appreciate the local value of vendors and amenities in our parks and share the community’s disappointment in the closure of a beloved cafe.”

Patrons expressed sadness at the cafe’s closure in the comments section of The Cedars House’s social media posts.

“Thank you for creating such a beautiful space and creative atmosphere filled with exhibits, classes, gatherings, and delicious coffee and food,” wrote Zipora Schulz on Facebook. “You will be truly missed as a gem and refuge. You are all appreciated! Best wishes on future endeavors.”

The Conservancy has posted a Request for Expression of Interest (RFEI) on its website to begin the process of reopening the space.

“Eligible businesses interested in subleasing the space and operating a dining establishment are welcome to apply. We hope to reopen the space as soon as this summer and will address some deferred maintenance on the building while we find a new sublessee,” the Conservancy said in a statement.

In an initial social media post from The Cedars House, the business wrote, “We were told…that the Fairmount Park Conservancy would not be leasing out the building anymore and we need to vacate and close by March 31. This was a surprise to us and we are saddened…” However, the FPC clarified in the comment section that the eatery’s arrangement was with Devon Arms LLC, and not with the Conservancy. 

The Cedars House then posted a second statement, telling customers that “This is not any one entity’s fault.” Rather, the business wrote that the building needs substantial repairs that they cannot afford, so they are unable to become the next lessee. 

“The cost of running a restaurant in Philadelphia has doubled since Covid and we took a hard look at what it would take to repair, maintain and bring the historic building up to code,” the statement said. “The business would not generate enough to do so, and we have lost too much already.”