Prime Grille Mysteriously Shutters in Bywater

Several Eater tipsters report that Prime Grille, the rather cantankerous steakhouse at 3162 Dauphine that opened about a year ago in the former Bywater Barbecue space, has been shuttered for over a month now. Tipsters insist the owners Kevin Fruits and Matt Cummings have moved back to Indiana, and word on the street is a hot local restaurateur may have already signed a lease for the building. But the restaurant's voicemail claims that Prime Grille is closed indefinitely as the chef/owner undergoes "cancer treatment," with "hope to reopen soon."

The restaurant struggled to gain a following in the past year, amid at least one pretty bleh review, a smattering of you-cray Facebook drama indicating violence, a less than stellar relationship with the neighbors, and an alleged staff overhaul (erm, 'final cleansing?') in late spring. But wait, there's more drama unfolding...

Also of note, a tipster informs us that Prime Grille was actually operating with a suspended liquor license.

However, the restaurant was still advertising "cheap drinks" in July. You can check their license online with the ATC right here, but search for Business name Prime Grill, as the final e is mysteriously absent.

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