A longtime favorite in Summerville has served its last slice. The Crushed Tomato closed its doors last week after 14 years in business.

The restaurant operated out of the former machine shop of a cotton mill, a space that was remodeled into a restaurant by Steve Pledger, who ran the location with his family.

Steve Pledger said: “After fourteen years of serving the people of Chattooga County and surrounding areas The Crushed Tomato in Summerville closed its doors for the final time. Our property has been bought by the state of Georgia for a bypass and roundabout. Jill, Zac, and I want to thank everyone that has supported us all these years. I am going to miss getting to talk and have fun with all the friends that we have made over these years. And to our staff you will be missed greatly, you guys and girls became my kids. And I have a special place in my heart for each of you. If anyone sees Jill and I out we will be just two old retired folks. Once again let me thank everyone for your support and we will always have you in our hearts.”

The Pledger family will continue to operate The Crushed Tomato on the square in downtown LaFayette, in neighboring Walker County.