Nestled among the Hammock’s live oaks, this family-owned restaurant is preparing to close the chapter on its longtime location.
In a statement posted June 2 to its Facebook page, 386, A Fusion of Fine Eating, announced “with heavy hearts” the decision to close its doors in the coming weeks, following more than a decade at its current location.
Frank DeMaio, owner of the fusion restaurant — which holds more than four stars on Google — reassured patrons that the closure isn’t the result of struggling business.
“This decision does not come from a lack of success, on the contrary, your love and support have kept us thriving over the years. We’re still a very busy restaurant,” the Facebook post reads.
“Unfortunately, we were unable to reach an agreement regarding the property purchase and lease. The building has been sold, and with the increasing challenges of upkeep and necessary repairs, continuing on has simply become unsustainable,” it continues.
With a move on the horizon, the restaurant is giving diners a final window to stop by for one last meal in the coming weeks, noting it would be “closing its doors very soon,” though an exact date was not provided in the original statement.
“This has been one of the hardest decisions we’ve had to make, especially with two babies under the age of two to support and our staff,” DeMaio’s post states.
“I’ve fought long and hard. I am just tired of trying to save this location and while this chapter is closing, the memories we’ve created with all of you will last forever,” it continues. “We will reopen at another location soon with the same fantastic food.”
DeMaio noted that while he has found another potential location, he’s currently looking for a partner or silent investor to bring his vision to life.
What is 386 in The Hammock?
DeMaio, described by many as the fiery Jersey Italian whose personality brings the space to life, opened the coastal restaurant in 2013.
Whether for its worldly wine list or dishes influenced by regional flavors across the U.S., 386’s menu has remained a steady draw over the years, with everything from crispy calamari and conch fritters to sea scallop pasta and prime steaks.
The tucked-away restaurant was also previously featured in The News-Journal’s 2023 roundup of the best spots for a seafood dinner in the Volusia-Flagler region.
Customers react to news of 386’s upcoming closure
In less than 24 hours, the online post has garnered nearly 150 social interaction with many patrons, some regulars of more than a decade, others recent first-time visitors, taking to the comments to express their support for the restaurant and optimism for its future location.
“Oh sad to hear Frank! But wherever you go, we will find you! Best of luck and thanks for all the great food and great memories,” Andrea Kelly commented.
“You have been our go to place since we moved to Palm Coast eight years ago and you will be, again, wherever you next open,” locals Gary and Estelle Otterbach wrote. “Many, many great meals (always) and too many fun times to mention. We made new friends at 386 and count you and your family among the best,” they continued. “We will see you in a week or so and toast to your next success. Thanks for all the good times.”
In the same statement, DeMaio noted that interested investors or silent partners are encouraged to text him at 623- 853-7265, as the restaurant’s prospective new location is time sensitive.
“Thank you for a decade of support, laughter, celebrations, and community. We appreciate you more than words can express,” the post goes on to say. “Please come support us over the next coming weeks. This isn’t goodbye, it’s just so long for now.”
This story will be updated as more information becomes available.
386 is located at 5949 N. Ocean Shore Blvd. in Palm Coast and is open 5 – 10 p.m. Tuesday – Saturday. Reservations are recommended and can be made by phone. For information, call 386-246-0070 or visit facebook.com/386PalmCoast.
This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Longtime Palm Coast restaurant on the Hammock to close, hopes to relocate
Reporting by Helena Perray, Daytona Beach News-Journal / The Daytona Beach News-Journal
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
