Posted at 7:36 PM ET, 07/ 6/2009

Goodbye, Nathans

By Julia Beizer

How's this for old school? This photo from the Post's archives shows Nathans patrons reacting to the O.J. Simpson civil case verdict in 1997. (Aris Economopoulos - The Washington Post)

A Georgetown institution for 40 years, Nathans is closing its doors for good after last call on Sunday, July 12. Tim Carman and Ruth Samuelson of Washington City Paper have posted owner Carol Joynt's goodbye letter and an exploration of some of the restaurant's lease drama.

D.C. barflies, take note. Nathans would like to see you again. Writes Joynt, "We hope over the next week you will find the time to come in and enjoy a last drink and meal with us. We wish we could give it away, but economic reality is that we need your dollars. Also, if I may, I ask you to please be generous with the staff."

-- Julia