By GRAHAM BROOKS / Staff Writer

HELENA–The owners of The Coal Yard Bar and Grill in Old Town Helena have made the decision to permanently close the restaurant after approximately a year-and-a-half of being in business.

The restaurant, which opened in March 2015 by owners Jeff and Rosalie Oetting, prided itself on its upscale casual food menu, one-of-a-kind bar featuring a variety of wine, spirits and domestic and local craft beer, live music and overall atmosphere.

The decision to close was made official on the restaurant’s Facebook page on Nov. 23, in a statement that read, “As Thanksgiving approaches, Jeff and I are very thankful for our customers and the community that supported us so lovingly. It is with a heavy heart that we must close the Coal Yard. We wish everyone a wonderful Thanksgiving.”

Before opening in March 2015, numerous renovations and years of construction took place at the location at 4085 Helena Road in an effort to preserve the original building to keep it unique to Helena.

Some of the items on the menu ranged from shrimp and grits, seafood tacos, IPA braised short ribs, baked oysters, burgers and more and numerous local craft beers were available on tap.

On Sept. 29, The Coal Yard announced on Facebook the restaurant would be closed until further notice due to a family illness and when the announcement came to permanently close a few months later, many in the Helena community showed their support for the owners and business.

“All of us at Scozzaro Law, LLC, say God Speed! We are so saddened by this. You will be forever loved and missed daily! We love you both! Happy Thanksgiving,” Kristi Scozzaro wrote on the restaurant’s Facebook page.

Helena Councilwoman Alice Lobell also expressed her well wishes to the owners.

“As you can see from all the posts, everyone loved the Coal Yard, but more importantly everyone loves you! We all want what is best for the two of you, and know that the people of Helena will always be here for you. God bless.”

The space where The Coal Yard was located is currently available for rent.