Harper’s Restaurant in Five Points has closed

After 27 years in business, Harper’s Restaurant has closed for business in Five Points.

The eatery, owned by Tom Sasser’s Charlotte-based Harper’s Restaurant Group, posted the news on its Facebook page today and removed the location from its list of Harper’s locations on its website.

In an email interview with The State, Sasser gave this comment on the closing:

“For more than 27 years, Harper’s Restaurant has served Columbia diners at 700 Harden St. We have built some great friendships throughout the community and for that reason it is with much sadness we announce the closing of the restaurant as of Tuesday April 18. Dining trends and areas in Columbia have changed dramatically over the past few years and Harper’s Group has made the difficult decision to move forward to focus on other projects throughout the Carolinas. We want to thank the many associates who have worked with Harper’s over the years and of course, all of our loyal patrons. Harper’s Group will continue to operate the Harper’s brand in Charlotte and Greensboro and hope that Columbia diners will visit next time they are in town.”

Earlier this year, Harper’s Restaurant Group opened 1801 Grille at the University of South Carolina’s 650 Lincoln complex.

The Five Points Association released the following statement about the restaurant’s closing:

“The Five Points Association is disheartened to hear the news of long-time Five Points merchant, Harper's Restaurant, closing its doors. They were an active member of the Association and a beloved business in our village.

Every district goes through change and not unlike the rest of downtown Columbia, Five Points is experiencing tremendous growth. We are excited and optimistic for the future of our community.”

This story was originally published April 19, 2017 at 10:39 AM with the headline "Harper’s Restaurant in Five Points has closed."