A long-established Long Branch family bar that has been a mainstay in the community for almost three decades has served its last plate of great wings and beer.

The owners of Sloppy Joe’s, at 3527 Lake Shore Blvd. W., told regulars on social media the bar was shut down permanently on March 3.

“We wanted to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to you all,” Larry and Pete wrote on their website. “Our father opened this business in April of 1971, driven by the dream of creating a neighbourhood gathering place that felt like home.”

They said Sloppy Joe’s over the years became a cornerstone of the community, hosting events and other activities. The bar was a neighbourhood favourite known for their great wings.

“We have always strived to honour his vision, pouring our hearts and souls into continuing what he started,” they wrote. “It has been an absolute honour and the privilege of a lifetime to follow in his footsteps.”

Two generations of the family operated the bar for 54 years and “we have been truly blessed to watch this place become a sincere reflection of the love and support of the community.”

The bar has been known as Sloppy Joe’s for 27 years.

“While we are saddened to close this chapter, we are also excited about the opportunities that lie ahead,” Larry and Pete said. “This is not goodbye forever, as we will make it a priority to visit our many valued customers and friends.”

Many former patrons of Sloppy Joe’s took to social media to express their loss to members pf the staff and regulars.

“I really loved this place, I am from outside of town but would come in to meet friends for the best wings in town and a beer,” Kthor Nielsen wrote.

Christina Wakeham said the wings at Sloppy Joe’s were great.

“I’ll never have another wing as good,” she said.

Another regular called the bar a ‘Lakeshore monument.”

A new Fox and John’s Pub and Restaurant will be opening at the location