After 10 years, popular Somerset restaurant and caterer closing, here’s why and when their last day of business is

A popular local catering company that also became an eatery is closing.

After 10 years, The Bearded Chicken, located at the former Chad’s Chowder House at 1160 G.A.R. Highway in Somerset, is shutting down according to a social media post.

Owner and head chef Eric Thomas cited time as the reason for the closure revealing that despite enjoying the job that he hasn’t considered as work, the restaurant involved 60-70 hours a week working nights, weekends and that he doesn’t get to see his kids.

Thomas has turned a successful catering business into something more and leaves the venture while it’s still successful

Sunday will be the final day for takeout with a limited menu of the more popular items.

New Year’s Eve catering orders are still moving forward and orders can still be placed.

Thomas thanked his support system and customers and didn’t rule out that someday you could see The Bearded Chicken as a pop-up or possibly a new venture down the line.