A revered family-owned restaurant in Dallas' Oak Cliff has closed: The Greek Cafe, which had been open more than 13 years, shut down, according to a heartfelt note from co-owner Joanna Tatakis.

"It is with great sadness I announce that we have closed and will not be able to open back up," she said. "I’m sorry it has taken me so long to tell everyone, but every time I sat down to say goodbye, it was just too hard."

The Greek Cafe was founded by Joanna's parents, Emmanuel "Mike" and Maryann Tatakis, and was known for Greek classics, including their signature gyros and Greek-style French fries with oregano and feta. Other popular items included dolmas and baklava.

The couple initially opened in Duncanville in 2008, then opened a second location in Bishop Arts in 2009; sadly, Maryann died in 2013.

The cafe struggled through the pandemic and the ensuing rising costs to do business.

Then Mike became ill, and was sent to hospice care - putting great strain on Joanna, who was not only running the restaurant single-handedly, but was also her father's sole caretaker. A GoFundMe was established in April to try and lighten her load. (Donations are still welcome.)

"To our neighbors, from all the gyros ordered, the get well soon card passed around for my dad, the many things borrowed, the hugs and encouragement, to the late night brain storming sessions, you know who you are," she said. "Thank you always for the support. It was an honor to be part of the community."