Workers at a once-famous Southern kitchen showed up for their shifts only to find the place permanently closed – no warning, no notice.
Paychecks were handed out like parting gifts, while the brand’s parent company promised “support.”
This, of course, came just months after two other flagship spots were abruptly shuttered.
Adding insult, the woman behind it all is currently posting sunny vacation snaps while her former staff scramble to figure out what’s next.
Paula Deen
Paula Deen faces renewed backlash over sudden restaurant closures and staff treatment
In a move that caught both employees and fans off guard, Paula Deen’s OWA Parks & Resort – operated Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen abruptly shut its doors in early 2024. Staffers reported arriving for work only to be told they were immediately laid off. One line cook recalled being directed to hand over keys and follow someone to receive a final paycheck, while another lamented how rumors of closure were assuredly dismissed—only for them to turn out true.
OWA attempted damage control by promising support and guidance for affected employees. However, the sentiment was not reciprocated.
This wasn’t an isolated incident. Just this month, Deen closed her flagship Savannah restaurants: The Lady & Sons and The Chicken Box – with 36 years of Southern cooking lore ending nearly overnight. Patrons and observers described the move as sudden. Deen’s announcement expressed gratitude toward customers and staff, but offered no explanation for the abrupt shutdown.
These events have reignited criticism of the chef. Many recall her past controversies: from 2012 backlash for promoting diabetes medication amid indulgent recipes, to the 2013 deposition revealing her use of racial slurs, issues that led to the cancellation of her Food Network series.
For many employees, the closures translated into financial hardship and uncertainty. As restaurant doors slammed shut, staffers were left grappling with abrupt unemployment, and a brand they once trusted.