Customers react after Bellbrook restaurant shuts down

A family-run, comfort-food restaurant that opened two years ago in Bellbrook has shut down for good, but it did so with class that was greatly appreciated by its customers.

Third Season — owned by Karen Freeman of Spring Valley and operated by her and her two sons, Avery and Marshall Williams — was located at 135 E. Franklin St. on the east end of Bellbrook. The building previously held an ice cream shop called the Frosty Eagle, but had been vacant for about five years before Freeman purchased the property and opened the restaurant in February 2015.

RELATED: Third Season restaurant opens in Bellbrook (February 2015)

Freeman used her web site and Facebook page to announce the permanent closing. The message to customers was heartfelt.

“It has been an amazing two-year journey,” Freeman wrote. “One filled with great moments getting to know great customers, many of whom … have become like family.

“Opening Third Season with my sons has created a trove of great memories that will last a lifetime. Words cannot express my appreciation for all of you who became part of our story.

“My thoughts, prayers, and most of all my heartfelt thanks go out to you and everyone who dined with us, supported us, cheered for us, and told others about us. We are, and will always be forever grateful. May you enjoy a bounty of blessings today and always!”

Facebook commenters responded graciously. Here’s a taste of what they had to say:

• “My heart hurts with this news.. Blessings to you Karen and your two sons to whatever you may decide to do in the future.” — Kathy Tschirhart

• “You were a blessing to our community. You will be missed.” — Christi Dawson Salchak

• “We loved your restaurant and we love you Karen!” — Anna Stutz

• “We will miss your wonderful food and warm smile!” — Elaine Blackwell Eversole

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• “Ohhh, I am so sorry to hear this. Thank you for such kind and friendly service!” — Stephanie Kreuder-Crowel

• “Sad to read this. Ryan Hoffman picked up many great take out meals for us during the first year of our journey being parents. I looked forward to it every weekend. All the menu items were delicious. You will be missed. Best of luck to you.” — Caryn Hinders Hoffman

Third Season offered “an eclectic menu of comfort food cooked fresh daily,” Freeman told me back in February 2015 when she opened the restaurant. Entrees included baby back ribs, fettuccine Alfredo, spaghetti and meatballs, and “Magnificent Meatloaf” topped with brown gravy.

LAST MONTH: Caramella’s Italian Kitchen shuts down after 4 months

This is the second independently owned restaurant to shut down in the Bellbrook-Sugacreek Twp. area in a month. Caramella’s Italian Kitchen shut its doors last month in the Sugarcreek Plaza. Its owner said competition from chain restaurants at Cornerstone of Centerville was a factor in his decision to close.

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About the Author

Mark Fisher

Mark Fisher, a 1981 graduate of Ohio State University and a 1976 graduate of Beavercreek High School, is a third-generation Dayton-area resident who has worked for the Dayton Daily News since 1983. He covered higher education and K-12 education accountability issues for nearly 20 years before taking over the food and dining beat in 2006.