Mary’s Kitchen, a family-owned breakfast restaurant, is at risk of closing its doors after 52 years in business.
The small business, located at 486 George Wilson Road, has spent more than five decades building its loyal customer base. Without the help of their community, their effort could soon be lost.
When Mary Presnell, owner and founder of the business, was just 19 years old, she began working in restaurants. Eventually, she decided to go into business on her own.
Presnell opened The Mountaineer Restaurant, her original name for the business, in 1974. In September 1989, the restaurant moved to its current location and was renamed to Mary’s Kitchen. This is where it has been ever since.
“Just watching people have fun here, get together and socialize and a meeting place for our locals. I think that’s been the most fun. That’s what I would miss the most,” said Brenda Castle, Mary’s daughter and the restaurant’s manager.
Castle has worked alongside her family since she was 12. When she was 16, she went on to do a program called Extended Day School, working at 7 a.m. during the week and attending classes in the afternoon and evenings so she could help support the business.
“I was kind of obligated to help mom and dad,” said Castle. “She kind of counted on me.”
Some employees say the sense of community within the restaurant is what makes it so special.
“You get to be a part of the family here,” said Rosa Auton, a longtime employee. “They are very good to you, and I enjoy working with them.”
Though not related by blood, Auton said it still feels like she is a part of the family, even referring to herself as their “adopted daughter.”
Ashley Guy, Presnell’s granddaughter and the assistant manager, said her favorite memories come from simply learning from her grandma.
“It’s my grandmother’s legacy. A lot of blood, sweat and tears went into this place,” said Guy.
Castle said it began with her parents, recalling how her father would walk around and pour coffee just to talk to customers.
“He was a storyteller. My dad was amazing — he loved to tell jokes and stories, and so many people would come in just to sit and laugh with him,” said Castle.
The restaurant has struggled since the COVID-19 pandemic. Castle said customers were unsure if it remained open. Additionally, Presnell has faced challenges with her health, limiting how much she is able to work and requiring the business to hire more staff, bringing on more expenses and less revenue.
The food cost inflation has been another contributing factor to its struggle, with the restaurant’s grocery bill tripling since Hurricane Helene, Castle said.
“We’re trying not to go way up on our prices,” Castle said. “Trying to keep things down so we don’t have to pass that on to our customers.”
The employees encourage people to spread the word that Mary’s Kitchen is ready to welcome and serve them.
“Social media has really brought in more customers, and we are beyond thankful,” said Castle.
The restaurant will remain open with help from others and hopes to continue to serve the community.
“It is a blessing to me to bless you,” Castle said.
