Dover, New Hampshire, Community Heartbroken Over This Restaurant Closing

In 2020, a year that we REALLY needed a positive place to gather for good food and fine company, Diverge opened on Central Ave in Downtown Dover.

The restaurant took over the location that used to be Kelley’s Row for more than 20 years. Owners T.J. Bernard and Shannon Booth were excited to create new memories for patrons in this location. They realized how fortunate they were to be in that space and wanted to pay their respects to the landmark that was here prior to them.

For five years they did just that. Customers enjoyed a wide variety of high quality food and drinks at a reasonable price. And you can't beat that view overlooking the Cocheco River.

But yesterday Diverge took to their social media to share some tough news with their friends, family, and regulars:

The outpouring of love and gratitude in the comments was really beautiful and the comments continue to roll in as the days go on.

People took the opportunity to share fond memories they had at the restaurant and thank TJ and Shannon for creating such a positive space in the Garrison City.

One of my favorite comments came from a gal named Liz. She said:

"Ohhhh no I’m so sad! Thank you for working as hard as you could! We will have such fond memories from getting through the pandemic with takeout that tasted so delicious and made us feel normal again. To bringing our daughter and having such a relaxing time! Good luck with everything! Also I kind of feel like that location is cursed!"

I don't know about the location being cursed. Kelley's Row had a pretty good run in that spot for over 20 years. However, times are tough right now and running a small business is so expensive. We are seeing so many of our favorite places struggle to stay afloat.

I am wishing the best of luck to TJ and Shannon. These folks seem so loved and treasured by our community I am certain they will land on their feet.