Primo closing

[Robin Garr]

Very sad indeed. I do think location is the overiding factor in this situation. As Doogy noted there just aren't enough people living in the immediate vicinity. Look at Mojitos or Seviche on Goose Creek...they seem to be doing ok despite high gas prices.

Good point, Mark, and as best I can see, the hot spots on Frankfort and Bardstown are still packing them in, presumably for similar reasons.

Still, it's a rough time for all our indies, and it would be a very good thing for all of us who care about them to bear in mind the troubled economic times and support the places we like with our dollars. And yes, I would say even to differentiate between locals and chains; even if you're not a chain-basher, the fact is that the national and regional corporations have a broader base, but our locals have only us.

Elizabeth, that would be super if you and your husband could attend. I am sure Bim as well as jo would love that! Also, there will be a few democrat guests as well dining and asking questions on hand. Again, this is an event that was created to not only highlight wisdom and wine but the venue. Thanks!

I just want to clarify that Primo will not be closing until the end of September. While it is a sad occassion I have confidence that Bim will find a new undertaking and Nick Lynch and Jeff McCracken will be welcomed with open arms wherever they choose to go following Primo.

As far as the economy and location, I think it's a mixture of both with some of Primo's contemporary elements mixed in. I think had the restaurant been placed in a different location, with more traffic and appreciation, this thread would not be taking place because Primo would be thriving.

[Robin Garr]

I just want to clarify that Primo will not be closing until the end of September.

The original post indicated Sept. 20. Is it in fact Sept. 30? It makes a difference! I know a lot of us want to go back at least once before it's all over.

While it is a sad occassion I have confidence that Bim will find a new undertaking and Nick Lynch and Jeff McCracken will be welcomed with open arms wherever they choose to go following Primo.

Yes indeedy!

Primo Staff......

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I am very sad to see Primo closing. Bim had an incredible concept and has such strong passion for his work. It is really unfortunate for Louisville that the market could not support it.

I am confident that Bim and his son, Nicolas, will be moving on to bigger and better things as restaurateurs. There is no doubt in my mind that the experience gained by the kitchen staff at Primo will provide them with wonderful opportunities for their future. They also have an excellent service staff, with a core few who have been there since nearly the beginning, who persevered and helped the restaurant succeed in the face of change. I wish them all the best and look forward to hearing where everyone lands. I also look forward to seeing what Bim is involved in next. With his intuition, passion, and style, he should be able to do pretty much anything he desires.

"Little minds are tamed and subdued by misfortunes; but great minds rise above them."
Washington Irving

I just spoke with Bim Dietrich's daughter-in-law and she verified that September 20 is the last day.

Nick if you need anything let me know...

I just spoke with Bim Dietrich's daughter-in-law and she verified that September 20 is the last day.

That is news to me. I spoke with Nic Saturday night. What I've been told is that if Ryder Cup is a phenomenal turnout, it will give Primo a chance to stay open until their lease is up October 1. I would like that happen as I bartend there during the week and have come to love and appreciate not only the people I work with but the knowledge and insight Bim, Nic, Nick, Jeff and even Chef Hargrove have provided during my time at Primo.

An email blast from the Convention Bureau last week predicted out of town guests to be estimated at 15,000 for Ryder. First glowing estimates a year ago were 150,000. Hotels are experiencing wide-spread and massive room block cancellations. According to Travelocity 124 hotels show availability. This thing is a bust, IMO.

[Robin Garr]

An email blast from the Convention Bureau last week predicted out of town guests to be estimated at 15,000 for Ryder. First glowing estimates a year ago were 150,000. Hotels are experiencing wide-spread and massive room block cancellations. According to Travelocity 124 hotels show availability. This thing is a bust, IMO.

Although Louisville's City Parents are remarkably good at self-delusion, Leah, I think the issue here isn't entirely overconfidence or Ryder being a "bust." I'm afraid airline prices, gasoline prices and the economy in general are sufficient to keep a lot of people home in September who might have thought back in January that they'd be here for sure.

Passing judgement either way is a bit premature IMO.

Bon Vivant Savant is hosting a Wine & Wisdom @ Primo tonight with Anne Northup and there are seats available. It is a three-course meal with passed wood oven pizza's during the Greet and Meet. Each course is paired with a glass of wine selected by Bim. Please call 287.2772 if interested. Thanks and yes, I do work with Jo self of Bon vivant Savant. And, this is very sad news regarding Primo closing!!

That is the first time I have ever see "Northup" and "Wisdom" used in the same sentence. I won't comment on the appropriateness of using this sad thread as an opportunity to post a PR notice for a client.

Yet you still did, I feel that we should ALWAYS keep food and politics seperate, as I normally respect a lot of views and opinions on here, but don't need to be force fed in-valid politics.

Passing judgement either way is a bit premature IMO.

You're right on, but also, let's not forget the seriously audible sigh heard around the states (particularly around town) when it became clear that Tiger wasn't going to show up....

also- Primo has a very special place in my heart...I am so sorry that it could come to something like this. The knowledge I was able to absorb in my 2 years at Primo was immeasurable and to this day bears an incredible influence on my serving and my life as a wine enthusiast/collector...I had an amazing ride, and I appreciate the opportunities Bim and Nic gave me. I will never forget my time there, and my abilities as a wine enthusiast are 1000X the better because of my experiences....

I worked with Bim many many years ago. The restaurant knowledge and expertise he has is amazing. This is a great loss to Louisville. Please Bim, if you're reading, open up another restaurant again , something, somewhere.