Paula Deen Abruptly Closes Two Savannah Restaurants

Paula Deen, the 78-year-old celebrity chef known for her Food Network show and Southern cuisine, has abruptly closed her flagship Savannah, Georgia restaurant The Lady & Sons, along with the adjoining takeout spot The Chicken Box. The closure, effective July 31, was announced by Deen and her sons, Jamie and Bobby, who expressed gratitude to loyal customers and staff for their support over 36 years but did not provide a reason for the shutdown. The Lady & Sons, which launched Deen's career, was a popular dining destination serving comfort food like fried chicken and banana pudding and remained busy even after her TV show ended in 2013. Despite this, patrons were surprised by the sudden announcement, with reservations canceled shortly before the closure. Deen emphasized that her four other Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen locations in Pigeon Forge, Myrtle Beach, Nashville, and Branson would continue operating. She also reaffirmed her connection to Savannah, stating it will always be her home and that she looks forward to supporting the local community going forward.