The Pharmacy Restaurant, a Southport institution for nearly 35 years, will close its doors at the end of service Wednesday.

Owners Dan and Kelli Menna recently sold the restaurant, 110 E. Moore St., to Oliver Landis, owner of Oliver’s on the Cape Fear at 101 W. Bay St. in Southport.
 
The Pharmacy Restaurant has evolved over its time at 110 E. Moore St., the historic building that housed Southport’s first pharmacy. The restaurant’s original owner, Doc Watson, named it The Pharmacy and operated a soda fountain-type diner for 16 years before it purchased by the Mennas. Since that time, it has earned a reputation for fine dining.
 
Mike Magee, general manager of Oliver’s, said that Landis is still working on plans for the restaurant. He was unable to confirm whether the name would change or when the restaurant might reopen.
 
Madison Menna, Dan and Kelli Menna’s daughter, said that letting go of the family business is bittersweet. She said the family is looking forward to relocating to Charleston, South Carolina, where they will operate an art gallery at 30 Pickney St. The gallery will feature work from Southport and Charleston artists as well as Kelli Menna’s work.
 
In a statement on The Pharmacy Facebook page, the family said, “We wish all the best to everyone that supported our restaurant, staff, and one of a kind food.”
 
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