September 17, 2021
Zen Fusion to close after 16 years
The Dilworth restaurant’s sister concepts remain open
Zen Asian Fusion will close its doors on Kenilworth Avenue after a decade and a half in business, the restaurant announced through a newsletter to customers on Friday.
“The past few years have presented unparalleled challenges to our beloved restaurant community,” the restaurant shared. “Through many tough conversations as the crisis has unfolded, and financial loss that we incurred as a result of the pandemic, we’ve come to the difficult decision that Zen Fusion will end our 16 year journey. We simply felt it best to refocus and move on to the next chapter. We’re so grateful for the many years we’ve spent in Dilworth and would like to extend the sincerest appreciation to our neighbors, the Charlotte community, and visitors who have dined with us over 16 years. It’s been a true honor.”
The restaurant’s sister concepts, Miro Spanish Grill in Toringdon Market and nearby Persuasian Restaurant on Park Road, will remain in business. Zen’s last day in business will be October 3. Some menu favorites from Zen will be served at Persuasian.
During the pandemic, Zen received $79,387 in PPP funding, as well as a $25,000 Open for Business grant from the City of Charlotte. Operating costs continue to rise for restaurants, however, with labor costs rapidly increasing due to the current labor shortage and supply chain issues making ingredients more costly, too.
As someone who has eaten at Zen at least a hundred times I will miss this place a great deal. Great owner in Phuong, always some of the best service in Charlotte. Chi and the gang at Persuasian are great too though!