South Tampa staple Kojak’s House of Ribs is closing, according to owner Chris Forney. According to a report by Fox 13, Forney couldn’t refuse an offer from developers who want to tear down the 1927-built bungalow and put up new apartments.
The popular barbeque restaurant, at 2808 Gandy Blvd., was opened by Forney’s dad and uncle in 1978. Focusing solely on smoked meats and simple sides, the Kojak’s has been a popular spot since.
The restaurant isn’t the only thing going down with the sale of the property–according to Tampa’s Accela Citizen Access site, plans are already approved to remove seven trees including two of the live and laurel oaks.
Kojak’s, however, might find new life elsewhere, Forney is looking for a new location but smaller and “easier to maintain.”
Creative Loafing Tampa Bay has reached out to Kojak’s and Forney for a statement and will update as soon as possible.
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