After more than 30 years serving breakfast and lunch five days a week to thousands of Downtown office workers, Benny and Sarah Bateh are closing Benny’s Sandwich Shop in the tunnel underneath 121 W. Forsyth St.
When the couple opened the restaurant on May 6, 1985, Benny Bateh said he wasn’t entirely sure people would eat underground in a former bank vault.
It turned out his concern was unfounded.
“It has been good to us, but it’s time to retire,” he said. “Thirty years is long enough.”
Sarah Bateh said retirement will give the couple more time to spend with family and volunteer at their church.
“It’s hard to say goodbye. We are going to miss all of our friends,” she said.
The Batehs will lock the door to their restaurant for the final time at 3 p.m. Friday.