Another Ocean County Eatery Closes Because of COVID Restrictions

Coronavirus has claimed yet another business here in Ocean County.

When will it end?

Delights Artisan Cafe, a coffee house on South Main Street in Barnegat, announced that due to massive debt from Coronavirus restrictions, they will be closing their doors this week.

In an emotional statement posted to social media, one of the owners — Bill, says that they have grown so much in the last ten months and “met some amazing people.”

“On November 9th, 2019 we, surrounded by our friends and family, cut the ribbon on a journey that was a longtime dream for my wife Natercia and myself,” the statement says.

The statement cites that the COVID-19 restrictions and the change in the business model it brought with it, made it impossible to continue even with the option of takeout and outdoor dining, “this was still not enough to win back the required profit margins to allow us to stay in business.”

The cafe is allegedly nearly $40,000 in debt due to lost revenue, the post says.

“A decision had to be made,” the statement continued, “it is with a heavy heart that we tell you that this chapter in the story of Delights has ended.”

The statement concluded with a glimmer of hope for the couple and their future endeavors — “This is not the final chapter for us, only a small intermission. Perhaps we’ll be back in the spring of 2021. Stay Tuned! Thank you.”

The last day of business for the eatery is Friday, August 14th, 2020.