ST. LOUIS — An iconic diner known for its smashed burgers and slingers has closed its doors once again.
Eat Rite is just the latest in a growing list of restaurants that have shut down since the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Owners of Eat Rite confirmed to 5 On Your Side the last day for business was on Dec. 12.
The diner was located just south of Busch Stadium along the historic Route 66 at Chouteau and 7th Street.
After photos circulated online showing the diner boarded up Friday, the restaurant posted on Facebook saying the closure would be permanent.
"St. Louis, we are deeply saddened to announce we have permanently closed our doors downtown," the post said. "We want to thank all of the patrons who have supported and dined at the Eat Rite Diner since we took ownership in 2017. Our opening day, the Cardinals Home Opener, in 2018 kicked off a refreshed and rejuvenated Eat Rite Diner."