Courthouse Restaurant Closes Its Doors

A Kew Gardens institution closed last Friday, March 31. The Courthouse Restaurant, for 23 years home away from home for judges, defense attorneys, prosecutors, witnesses, defendants, police and court officers and some prominent figures in notable court cases, hung out a sign reading "It's Over" and served its last meal. Customers who showed up for lunch found the door locked.

The diner was described as "good, safe,

a] friendly atmosphere and great food" in one restaurant guide. But besides serving fine food at good prices, according to a longtime customer, the diner provided a setting where the business of Queens County was carried on before official discussions were held in Borough Hall, located directly across the street from the restaurant, which was at 124-36 Queens Blvd.

Sources attributed the restaurant's demise to staffing problems or to its landlord's intention to rent the space to a bank.The ultimate reason for the closing was unclear at press time.

--Linda J. Wilson