Chris Golon

DELEON SPRINGS, Florida – The iconic Old Spanish Sugar Mill restaurant in DeLeon Springs will close its doors next month, the establishment announced Monday. September 12 will mark the end of the restaurant’s 61-year tenure serving visitors to DeLeon Springs State Park in northwest Volusia County.

The decision to close was not made by the restaurant owners; it came into the hands of the state government, which decided not to further extend the contract for the sale of the sugar mill in the building.

An immediate wave of support fell on the sugar mill following their announcement on Facebook, in the form of more than 10,000 shares less than a day after it was posted. “We are truly blown away by the overwhelming support following last night’s announcement,” the sugar mill released on tuesday.

Management also clarified that the building will not go anywhere. After the Sugar Mill leaves on September 12, a new restaurant vendor will begin moving in. It is not yet clear who it is, but dozens of locals have vowed not to eat there.

The former Spanish sugar mill has stood in its current location since 1961. It’s been in operation 21 years longer than DeLeon Springs is a state park, serving the region’s signature pancake breakfast and dining experience. for the lunch. Locals and tourists still have a little over a month to eat their last meals at the sugar mill.