Wilmington restaurant announces closure, location change on social media

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Smoke on the Water will close its current waterfront location on Oct. 28 after nearly a decade in operation, but the restaurant says it plans to reopen at a new location in downtown Wilmington.

In a statement posted to Facebook, the restaurant said its longtime home has been sold to a restaurant group, leaving it needing to vacate the building.

Smoke on the Water said it had hoped to sign a new lease and had spent a year wanting to secure one, but the opportunity was not presented after the property was sold.

The restaurant will close to the public on Wednesday, Oct. 28. The property is expected to continue operating as a restaurant, with additional details from the new property owner and business owner to be announced at a later date.

Smoke on the Water said it plans to reopen at a new location near the water in downtown Wilmington. The restaurant described the future location as a popular downtown destination but did not provide a name or opening date.

The restaurant thanked customers for supporting it over the past nine years, highlighting its waterfront sunsets, live music, food specials and events.