Several well-known businesses in the Bradenton area said farewell during 2022
Several high-profile, long-time businesses in the Bradenton area closed during 2022.
Among those saying goodbye:
The Sea Hagg
The Sea Hagg boutique at at 12304 Cortez Road W. closed after a 25-year run.
The store’s 1991 Mercury Capri convertible tricked out with twin mermaid tails was a Cortez landmark.
Owner Jan Holman sold the real estate. All of the nauticals, antiques and curiosities went to auction.
The property buyer and plans for the property have not been disclosed.
Demetrios’ Pizza House
One of the most emotional closings of the year was for Demetrios’ Pizza House, 1720 Cortez Road W., which shuttered in April, ending a 46-year run that started in 1976.
Family members said the restaurant was not only their livelihood, but helped the next generation move forward, and to make friends and memories for guests who returned year after year.
“I will miss all the people who came to the restaurant. God bless America,” said a tearful Helen Sokos, 83, of the closing.
Happily, the restaurant space did not stay closed long. Philip Chaltis, of Bradenton, reopened the business as Godson’s Pizza House.
Demetrios’ former owner Gus Sokos is Chaltis’ godfather and gave him his first job at the restaurant when he was 16 years old.
Primo! Ristorante
Primo! Ristorante, 8076 N Tamiami Trail, in southern Manatee, was a longtime fixture next to Sarasota Bradenton International Airport.
In a Facebook posting, the owners announced: “To all our friends, guests and amazing employees. I would like to thank you for 36 years of great business and memories. Today Sunday Nov. 13, is our last day of operation.
“It is a hard and an emotional decision, but we believe is the right time to drop the curtains like a great Italian opera.
“Arrivederci…”
The Farm House
The Farm House, 1902 Manatee Ave. E., a home decor, boutique and doughnut shop, which opened in 2017, closed this year.
“While the store features vintage pieces of home decor, furniture and jewelry, make no mistake – doughnuts are the main attraction,” a Bradenton Herald story said of The Farm House’s opening.
