The rhythm of Southern comfort and live music is set to come to a halt at The Porch Southern Fare & Juke Joint in Medford, an establishment that’s doled out both for the past 8 years. As reported by Boston Restaurant Talk, this local watering hole and grub spot hosted its final service on July 21 and bid adieu to its patrons with a last concert on July 26.
Details have been shared by the eatery on its Facebook page, stating a familiar tale of struggles that independent businesses often face, which led to its cease operations. “We could give you all the reasons, but you’ve already seen them numerous times from the many independent restaurants and venues that have closed in the Boston area over the last few years,” The Porch lamented in a social media statement. The story was also picked up by MassLive, which reached out for specific reasons behind the closure but has yet to receive them as of their latest update.
A beacon of Southern culture in Massachusetts since its debut in Wakefield Center back in 2016, The Porch later relocated to 175 Rivers Edge Drive in Medford in 2019. It wasn't just a restaurant; it hosted an array of live acts, setting the stage for genres including rock, blues, and indie, thereby creating a unique atmosphere where food and music intertwined.
Founded by Nashville native chef Jonathan Post, The Porch strived to offer an experience infused with Southern hospitality. Its menu boasted regional Southern cuisines and an authentic whole hog barbecue program that was a draw for many. The Porch was known for opening its doors at times that accommodated a variety of patrons—from the Wednesday after-work crowd to the Sunday brunch enthusiasts.
The Porch’s presence will be missed by Medford locals and the surrounding community, an echo of a sentiment widely felt in the area as independent businesses continue to struggle. In their closing statement, The Porch expressed gratitude for the camaraderie and memories made, "We have made so many new friends, and it has always been you who made The Porch what it is. We cherish the relationships and connections we’ve formed, and those will continue on long after The Porch is a distant memory."
