Muriel's restaurant closes

Despite rave reviews, Allegheny West restaurant says goodbye

City Paper readers voted Muriel's Pittsburgh's "Best New Restaurant." Post-Gazette readers hailed it as serving the "Best American Cuisine" in the city. But even the highest of praises couldn't keep the Western Avenue restaurant afloat.

About a month ago, the owners scaled back its hours to three days a week but that didn't seem to balance out declining business. Muriel's closed its doors for good on Mother's Day.

Owner Steve Esherick thanked his patrons on the Muriel's website:

"It is both with sadness and deep appreciation that I announce Muriel's closed its doors for the last time after brunch on Mother's Day 5/11/08. It is no longer financially feasible for us to stay open. However I want to thank you personally for the wonderful experiences you have afforded me over the past year. I have met so many great people and have had the opportunity to live my dream."