By: John Fryman
THE VILLAGE REPORTER
john@thevillagereporter.com
It was announced through social media that Father John’s Restaurant and Microbrewery in Bryan closed its doors effective Tuesday, February 17. The restaurant was located in the former Methodist Church building, which was built in 1895 and eventually opened as a restaurant in 2013 by owner John Trippy.
Trippy shared the announcement on Facebook. In his social media post, Trippy wrote that the restaurant was to be a place for community, to come together, to break bread with each other, for hearts to be touched, and for people to take that love and share it back with the community.
He continued with his post, “All good things must come to an end. Father John’s was my second love, and it was always a spiritual undertaking for me. Now it’s time for the church to find a new purpose, to achieve a higher vibration.”
The restaurant was last open for business on Saturday, February 14, which was also Valentine’s Day. “So, it is on this Valentine’s weekend, with our hearts open and loving.
We say goodbye for now,” continued Trippy in his post. “She was my conception and passion for the past 14 years. I miss her already and you all. May you be well, happy, healthy, and peaceful.”
Father John’s has hosted many events over the years, especially during the Christmas holiday season. These were highlighted by a service of lessons and carols in the old Methodist sanctuary.
Prior to its closing, Father John’s was scheduled to host the Appalachian Road Show for a performance on Friday, March 13. The show had previously been postponed since January due to bad weather.