Island Frydays Permanently Closed after 15 Years
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Popular Caribbean restaurant, Island Frydays, has closed permanently after nearly 16 years in business.
Owner Leo Morgan announced the closure December 17th on the restaurant’s website. The final day of operation was Wednesday, December 18th.
Leo Morgan, a former UC football player, chalked up the closure to the economic strain caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and rising food costs.
“Trust me when I say we’ve explored every available resource to avoid making this difficult decision, especially with the holidays right around the corner, but we can no longer sustain it.”
The restaurant, known for its flavorful Jamaican cuisine, became a local favorite and earned national attention. In 2009, Morgan opened Island Frydays on Short Vine as a way to share the dishes of his Jamaican heritage, which he initially cooked for teammates and friends while attending UC.
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Island Frydays’ reputation grew over the years, including a spotlight on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives” in 2014, where their jerk chicken and spicy snapper was praised. Morgan describes Fieri as a “mentor” and friend after their collaboration.
The restaurant has also welcomed other notable guests, including rapper Rick Ross and NFL teams like the Indianapolis Colts.
In his announcement, Morgan was sure to expressed gratitude to the Cincinnati community and students at UC and Xavier University for their support. “It’s been an honor to share my passion for great food with such an amazing city,” he said.
Although the restaurant has closed, Morgan plans to continue selling Island Frydays’ seasonings online. He is also considering sharing recipes on social media.
This closure adds to a wave of restaurant shutdowns in the region, including Rich’s Proper and Hangry Omar’s in Covington, Golden State Tacos in Terrace Park, and Red Feather Kitchen in Oakley.
Watch the goodbye video below:
