Cambridge Wine Bar Transitioning Away From Restaurant Service

CAMBRIDGE, MA— One of Cambridge's well-known wine bars is preparing to close its dining room later this month as it transitions to a new business model.

Dear Annie announced the change Wednesday in a brief Instagram post reading, "love you lots." Owner Lauren Friel later shared that the restaurant's final regular dinner service will be on Friday, July 31. The business will then close throughout August before reopening in September with a focus on private events and bespoke wine experiences. Although regular dining service is coming to an end, Dear Annie is not closing permanently.

Friel said the decision was influenced by the difficult economics facing the restaurant industry, but ultimately stemmed from her desire to spend more time with her family. She said continuing to operate Dear Annie as a full-service restaurant would require sacrifices that no longer aligned with her priorities as a mother.

Dear Annie first opened in 2021 as a partnership between Friel and Field and Vine owners Sara Markey and Andrew Brady. The restaurant quickly became known for its natural wine program and seasonal menu, earning national recognition the following year when The New York Times named it one of America's 50 favorite restaurants and Bon Appétit included it on its list of the country's 50 Best New Restaurants.

According to its website, Dear Annie was created as a neighborhood wine bar centered around seasonal food, curated wines, and hospitality. The business also operates as the sister restaurant to Rebel Rebel, the natural wine bar located at Bow Market in Somerville.

The announcement prompted an outpouring of support on social media, with customers sharing memories of celebrations at the restaurant.

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