Village Pancake House In Rowley, MA Closes After 23 Years

If you grew up around the North Shore or spent any time crossing the Massachusetts-New Hampshire border for a good breakfast, chances are you know the Village Pancake House in Rowley.

And now, one of those longtime breakfast traditions has officially come to an end.

The family-run restaurant abruptly closed its doors on September 9th after more than 23 years in business. Owners Cathy and Ed Sutherby announced the decision on social media, explaining that they had decided it was time to retire.

For generations of diners, Village Pancake House was much more than a place to grab a stack of pancakes. The restaurant was tucked inside a historic 17th-century home and became known for its cozy, homey atmosphere, classic breakfast favorites, pancakes in a variety of flavors and hearty lunch options.

The building itself has an incredible history, dating back to 1660. According to Boston.com, the property was originally built by the Jewett family and eventually became home to a restaurant that had been serving diners for decades.

And judging by the reaction to the closure, plenty of people considered a meal there part of their family traditions.

One local wrote, "My daughter used to travel from Manchester, New Hampshire to the Village Pancake House so that she and I could have omelets and pancakes on Mother’s Day. The food was always amazing! Kathy and Ed, I wish you all the best, but I’m very sad for my loss and that of all your customers."

The Sutherbys thanked their customers for allowing them to become part of their lives and families, saying, “While this decision is bittersweet, we look forward to the next chapter and will always cherish the memories we have made with all of you.”

For North Shore locals and plenty of New Hampshire folks who made the trip south, the Village Pancake House wasn't just breakfast. It was a little piece of New England tradition.

And sadly, the final check has been paid.

Get one last Village Pancake House experience here.