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A longtime restaurant near Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul is closing its doors for good next Sunday.

The Downtowner Woodfire Grill on West Seventh Street made that announcement on Monday — saying the closure on May 17 is due to the retirement of owner Moe Sharif after 38 years. 

“For nearly four decades, he has proudly served the St. Paul community with dedication and heart,” the Sharif family 

. “Moe would like to extend his deepest gratitude to the city of St. Paul, our amazing staff, and our loyal customers for making this journey so special. The Downtowner has been a true icon in this city — a one-of-a-kind gem that will be deeply missed.”

Sharif operated it as a diner before renovating the space into its current iteration following the arena opening in 2000. 

The family said Moe Sharif will continue helping out his son across the street at Burger Moe’s — which is not closing. He’s also planning to spend more time with family and friends, and more time traveling.

Meanwhile, they’re looking for new operators to take over the Downtowner Woodfire Grill space.

“We hope the next torchbearer will continue a meaningful legacy in this space,” the family wrote.

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The Downtowner Woodfire Grill on West Seventh Street announced Monday that it will be closing for good next Sunday, May 17, due to the retirement of owner Moe Sharif after 38 years. 

The exterior of the Downtowner Woodfire Grill.

Longtime St. Paul restaurant closing for good next Sunday

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