Hernando’s Underground Cafe closes

The owners of Underground Cafe Hernando took to social media Tuesday to announce that it has permanently closed.  

“We have enjoyed serving the community as the new owners for the last year, but unfortunately we are unable to continue,” the post on Facebook said. “We have exhausted our resources.”

The post thanked the customers for the support of the cafe and went on to thank staff members who have been part of the cafe operation.  

“We appreciate all these folks as well as other staff members who have worked hard alongside us,” the post said. “Please pray for them as they go out to find new opportunities.”

Rising costs were listed behind the decision to close.  

“There are certain things that we would not compromise on – pay for our employees, and the quality of our food,” the post said. “We have been losing money every month. We knew from the start that it was a risk to buy a restaurant, and we don’t regret the experience.”

The Underground Cafe was located in the basement of a building located just off the Courthouse Square at 2476 Memphis Street in downtown Hernando. It was described as a “Chef owned and Chef operated Cajun, American restaurant.” 

At one time, as Memphis Street Café, the restaurant was featured on Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives in Season 15, Episode 5, titled “Bar Food and Bon Bons.” This episode first aired on Feb. 6, 2012. The show highlighted the café’s popular Southern-inspired dishes and unique flavors, bringing more attention to the restaurant and its offerings.