After 115 years, Eckart’s in Westhampton Beach to serve last meal

It’s the end of a long era in Westhampton Beach.

After 115 years, Eckart’s Luncheonette is preparing to serve its final meal on Feb. 17.

“It’s sad,” Danielle Eckart told Greater Long Island. “It wasn’t an easy decision. It’s been many years of back and forth, but it’s been on the market for two years and it was finally time.”

Danielle is the daughter of the current owners, Raymond and Dee Eckart, who have operated the iconic Mill Road luncheonette for more than 40 years. She said her parents were ready to retire and ultimately had to sell because no one else in the family was able to take over the business.

Jacob’s son, known as Red — Danielle’s grandfather — was born in the apartment above the luncheonette in the 1930s. Danielle said her parents still live in that same apartment today.

Since announcing the closure on social media last week, Danielle said the family has been touched by the outpouring of memories shared by longtime customers and regulars.

“I’m so very proud of my family and the history we created here,” she said. “I’m lucky to have all the experiences I did, and so is my family.”

As for what comes next, Danielle said the buyer has promised to preserve the building’s historical value and keep it operating as a restaurant, though no additional details have been shared.

“We just want to say thank you to everyone who made this place so special over the years,” she said.