CLEVELAND – If you live on the East Side or are a member of the Jewish community, there's a good chance you've been to Corky and Lenny's in Woodmere. According to the restaurant owner, they have been looking for a partner to lead them into the future for years, but have not been able to find one. That's why they're closed now.
“We are very grateful to our employees, many of whom have spent their entire professional lives with us. “We are also very grateful to our loyal customers, it is not a lack of business that has led to this closure,” the restaurant said in a statement.
John Kosich/News 5 Cleveland
Sign in at the restaurant
There is a possibility they may reopen at a smaller location in the future.
This Cleveland staple, known for its overstuffed corn-beef sandwiches, matzo ball soup, salads and jumbo pickles, opened its doors in 1956 before moving to its current location in 1973.
The restaurant is a way of life for Gloria Kurland, whose husband, Sanford “Corky” Kurland, opened it nearly 70 years ago. Her son Kenny Kurland now runs it.
“My husband started this company 68 years ago and I have always helped and always worked in the company and unfortunately it is very sad that it has come to this,” she said. “It’s a shame we couldn’t find a work partner or someone to come in here.”
Kurland said her son burned out and running the business took its toll.
“I hope that at some point in the near future someone comes along and wants to get into this type of business,” Kurland said.
When the former Horseshoe Casino opened its doors more than a decade ago, Corky and Lenny's was the first food court the casino offered. This location is now closed.
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