Oh, No! Right Wing Tavern Is Closed

Say it ain’t so! Right Wing Tavern has closed its doors for good.

It’s true. “American Food Politically Incorrect” located in historic downtown is no more.

“What?!?! No way! I just had dinner there last night!” posted Tim Dennis on the Right Wing Tavern Facebook page.

The closing of a business recently highlighted as the Downtown Woodstock business of the day by Mainstreet Woodstock has left the community wondering just what happened.

The owners could not be reached for comment.

But Kyle Bennet with the Downtown Development Association told Patch a new restaurant, Freight Kitchen & Tap, is slated to open in the train depot soon.

Right Wing Tavern brought Southern food, a welcoming gathering place and political wit to downtown patrons, who have flooded the restaurant's Facebook page.

“That was my favorite place to go for wings n beer," said Robert Tison. "Where else can one find a fried green tomato sandwich? Nowhere! A tragic day indeed.”

Leaving loyal Right Wing patrons grieving their favorite watering hole, Right Wing Tavern posted the following message Thursday on Facebook:

“Yes, it is true...as of today the Right Wing Tavern is officially closed. We love everyone in our Right Wing family so, so much! Thank you everyone for the good times, memories and friendships made there. Thanks for the support during the years. It was a very difficult thing, but we feel its what's best for our family and staff right now.”

The news has drawn tremendous response from Woodstock residents sharing fond memories, expressing gratitude for years of service, and of course, in true form, voicing political commentary.

“I truly hate to hear this," said Steven Baumrind. "What a great place. I blame Obama.”

True to the tavern’s name, many Right Wing customers blame the left, Democrats and liberals, including President Barack Obama and even Jimmy Carter, for the owners’ decision to close.

“Will miss the Wit and posts on Facebook. Will miss the atmosphere. Hopefully won't miss Jamie and his family because they will still be around and a part of downtown Woodstock. Obama has already been blamed so I blame Jimmy Carter," said Lee A. West.

Community businesses also responded to the closing.

“Tom and I from The Wright Stuff Collectibles are truly sorry to hear this sad news. We've always enjoyed our meals at your restaurant. It's a sad day for Woodstock,” said Anne Wright.

Marshall Still of Acoustic Open Mic said, “We loved it and think it was a success in concept and taste! Surprised of the news ... always seemed to be a crowd when we went there. big bummer! best of luck!”

Billy Peppers, the director of the Woodstock Office of Economic Development Services, shared his fondest memory in response to the closing.

“I told my wife I loved her for the very first time at Sunday night trivia. Right Wing will always have a special place in my heart," he wrote on the tavern's Facebook page. "Thank you Jamey and Wendy!”

Peppers could not be reached Friday.