Pretty Penny Café closes

Suzanne Stewart
Staff Writer

The gloomy weather Saturday matched the mood at the Pretty Penny Café in Hillsboro as, for the last time, patrons enjoyed a hearty meal and live bluegrass music.

The Pretty Penny story began in 2008 when owner Blair Campbell opened the restaurant at Watoga State Park. After two years at the Watoga, Campbell moved the restaurant to Hillsboro.

The Café had a unique blend of locally grown produce and meat, and an eclectic range of concerts, featuring local favorites Black Mountain Bluegrass Boys, Sean Owen Band and many more.

After putting her heart and soul into the restaurant, Campbell made the decision to move on to the next chapter of her life.

“The time has come for me to not own a restaurant anymore,” Campbell said in an email. “I am not sure where this decision will take me. I own that beautiful building and that will not change, but for now the doors will be closed as a business until I figure out what the next move is.”

Campbell is at peace with her decision and is happy to be moving on. Most important to her has been the support she has received from the community.

“Thank you, again, from the bottom of my heart,” she said. “Most people never get to live out their dreams. I had the opportunity to do it at Pretty Penny Café for many years. I can’t wait to see what happens next.”