The Little Stove, a popular downtown Jacksonville restaurant, is closing temporarily as its ownership addresses unforeseen personal circumstances.
A note posted Tuesday said the decision was made “with great care and was not one we ever hoped to make.”
“We are deeply grateful for the incredible support we have received from our guests, employees, local vendors and the Jacksonville community,” it said. “Your loyalty and kindness over the years have meant the world to us.”
Although a timeframe was not discussed, it is intended to be temporary, according to the owner.
On its social media site, The Little Stove said the decision was because of health issues and “while this chapter is unexpected, we are trusting that it won’t be the end of our story. We are hopeful that with time, healing and God’s grace, we’ll be able to welcome you back.”
The Little Stove and its centerpiece Mugnaini wood-burning brick oven first opened at 56 N. Central Park Plaza in 2021.
Chef Andrew Deuel said he and his wife, Liz, wanted to bring a taste of Italy and his love of cooking to Jacksonville.
Deuel trained at the New England Culinary Institute in Vermont and received a master’s degree in Italian cuisine from the Italian Culinary Institute for Foreigners in Costigliole D’asti, Italy. He worked at restaurants in New York and Chicago before becoming executive chef of Hagel 1891 in Mount Sterling, which closed in 2025.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your love, support and encouragement over the past five years. Your kindness, loyalty, and friendship have meant more to us than you’ll ever know,” the owners said in a statement. “We will keep everyone updated as we know more. Until then, we kindly ask for your prayers, grace and understanding during this time. We look forward to the day we can open our doors again.”