Cork 'n Fork closes after 30 years in Cedar Rapids

A southeast Cedar Rapids restaurant that was a mainstay on Mount Vernon Road SE has closed after more that 30 years.

Cork 'n Fork, 2835 Mount Vernon Rd. SE, was a family-owned business, most recently by Len and Kathy Skvor for the last 16 years. The Skvors posted a notice on Cork 'n Fork's Facebook page that they closed the restaurant effective Wednesday.

"Unfortunately, the economy has finally taken its toll on our business too," the posting read. "So it is with great regret that we must say our final goodbyes and wish everyone a Happy 2014."

Cork 'n Fork joins other long time Eastern Iowa restaurants that closed recently.

The Spring House, 3980 Center Point Rd. NE, which closed its doors in late 2013 after 44 years of business.

Jill Schmitz, who owned Spring House with her husband, Lester, said changes in the economy led to the decision. Schmitz said the restaurant also needed to remodel its restrooms to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act, an expense the business could not afford.

Huntington's Restaurant, 1107 Seventh Ave. in downtown Marion, closed in late December after about 30 years in business under different owners.  John Huntington, who bought the business in 2001, has accepted a job that will provide more time with his children.

Matt Steigerwald, owner of The Lincoln Cafe, 117 W. First St. in Mount Vernon, closed the restaurant near the end of December after 12 years in business. The restaurant was been featured in publications like the New York Times, Chicago Tribune, Midwest Living and O Magazine.

After seven years of operation, CiCi's Pizza across from Westdale Mall closed in late February. The 4,700-square-foot franchise location opened in the fall of 2006.