After a longstanding presence gracing San Diego with American comfort food, Terra American Bistro is saying goodbye to its brick-and-mortar operations on El Cajon Boulevard. A stalwart since 1995, and at its current location since 2011, the bistro announced on Tuesday that it will close its dine-in services on June 21. In a shift focusing on catering and takeout, the establishment is seizing a new business direction.

The tough decision to pivot away from the traditional eatery experience comes as the owners seek new ways to serve their patrons. According to Terra American Bistro, Chef Jeff Rossman, Mike, and Bobbi Rossman shared that their decision to change the business model was "not made lightly." Despite the sadness of this transition, the Rossmans conveyed their enthusiasm for the new chapter. They noted, "It is with both sadness and excitement that we announce a new chapter in the life of Terra American Bistro."

While Terra American Bistro will discontinue hosting diners at its current location, it aims to maintain its relationship with the San Diego community through a revised service structure. Making weekly menus available, the bistro will offer weekend pick-up options for those looking to enjoy its beloved dishes at home. This move, hoping to sprinkle the essence of Terra American’s dishes across dinner tables and special events city-wide, ensures that the flavors San Diego grew to love will endure.

Terra American has expressed gratitude towards its customer base for their unwavering support throughout the decades. "We want to express our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you for your unwavering support throughout the years," stated Chef Jeff and the Rossman family, as outlined in Terra American Bistro. Their message outlines a future where Terra’s culinary excellence is made accessible to a broader audience in settings both intimate and grand.

As San Diego bids farewell to a favorite neighborhood haunt, the community watches with a mix of reflection and anticipation. Patrons who frequented the beloved bistro will no doubt follow the next steps of Terra American with keen interest. Further information about the transition and upcoming services by Terra American Bistro can be gleaned from their official communication channels.

With regular updates expected in the coming weeks, customers are advised to stay connected for the latest on how they can continue to indulge in the tastes that Terra American Bistro has crafted for over a quarter of a century, now to be savored in the new backdrop of personal and corporate gatherings. FOX 5/KUSI relayed the details of this major development on June 14, marking the end of an era and the sprouting of new beginnings for the local culinary scene and for Terra American Bistro itself.