Farewell to a Local Favorite: Ladles Soups Shutters its Doors in Kill Devil Hills
KILL DEVIL HILLS – In a bittersweet turn of events, local restaurant Ladles Soups served its last bowl of soup on Wednesday. Known for its cozy atmosphere and motto “Hot Soup for Cool People,” the eatery has been a beloved spot for both residents and vacationers since it opened nearly a decade ago. The restaurant, which took over a former Arby’s location at 1901 S. Croatan Highway, made its announcement through a heartfelt post on Facebook.
Cheers and Thanks to the Community
In the farewell message, the staff of Ladles Soups expressed gratitude to the community they have served since December 2014. “We have ladled our way through the years serving our wonderful Outer Banks community that has never let us down and we thank you for all of your support, as well as our friends that have come from near and far to visit us while they vacation here,” the message read. This statement truly echoed the sentiment shared by many who frequented the quaint soup shop.
Word of the closure spread quickly, and it has left a noticeable gap for many who enjoyed a comforting bowl of chowder or a spicy bisque during their visits to the Outer Banks. The news comes on the heels of several posts by the restaurant in late July, announcing closures due to illness, which raised concerns among loyal patrons.
Community Reflections
As folks processed the news, Kill Devil Hills Mayor John Windley chimed in, noting, “This winter will be a little colder without Ladles soup.” His words resonated with many locals who saw the restaurant not just as a place to eat, but as a community hub where friendships were formed over warm bowls of soup. The ambience of Ladles was characterized by friendly chatter and the comforting aroma of freshly prepared soups, making it a go-to spot for many.
The Restaurant’s Legacy
At one point, the South Carolina-based Ladles Soups boasted a network of twelve franchised restaurants across different locations. Sadly, with the closure of the Kill Devil Hills location, only two remain active—the original in downtown Charleston and another in James Island, South Carolina. This decline reflects a broader trend affecting many small establishments, particularly in tourist areas that face unique challenges.
In their farewell message, the team reassured supporters about the wonderful experiences shared over the years. The cooking philosophy aimed to create a warm and inviting space for people to gather over hearty meals. This approach encouraged a loyalty that many restaurants strive for but few achieve. It’s hard to think of Kill Devil Hills without picturing those warm, cozy meals from Ladles, especially during the chilly winter months ahead.
A Community Adapts
As the dust settles on the closure, the community now finds itself in a period of transition. Local eateries and restaurants nearby may see an uptick in business as former Ladles customers look for new places to find their comfort food. With a variety of other dining options available in the Outer Banks, it will be interesting to see how local favorites rise up to fill the gap left behind.
The loss of Ladles Soups is more than just the ending of a local business; it’s a reminder of how special community spaces are to a town’s identity. While the doors may have closed on this beloved soup shop, the memories and connections made within its walls will surely linger on. So, here’s to the future of Kill Devil Hills and to ensuring that the warmth and community spirit continue to thrive even as we say goodbye to a cherished local gem!
