OCALA, FL (352today.com) – One of downtown Ocala’s most beloved dining destinations will soon serve its final meal.

The owners of La Cuisine announced this week that they have made the difficult decision to sell the restaurant after 17 years of business. The French-inspired restaurant’s final day of service will be June 26.

In a message shared on social media, owners Elodie and Patrice reflected on their journey from France to the United States and the community that helped turn their dream into a reality.

“When we left France and came to America, we never imagined where this journey would lead,” they wrote. “We dreamed of building a life, raising our family and creating a place where people could gather around a table, enjoy good food and feel welcomed.”

The couple thanked customers for supporting the restaurant over nearly two decades, noting that they had the opportunity to celebrate countless milestones with guests, including birthdays, anniversaries, engagements, graduations, promotions and retirements.

“What began as a restaurant became something much more,” they wrote. “Many of our guests became friends, and many of those friends became family.”

While ownership of La Cuisine is changing, the restaurant’s location will continue serving diners. According to the announcement, the business has been purchased by a local downtown Ocala business owner who plans to continue operating the space as a restaurant. The owners said the goal is to preserve the restaurant’s role as a gathering place and dining destination in the heart of downtown.

Before closing, Elodie and Patrice encourage customers to visit over the next few weeks, enjoy a favorite meal and share memories from the restaurant’s 17-year history.

“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.”