CLIVE, Iowa — A staple for Mediterranean food in the Des Moines metro is closing its doors.
Gazali's, which has been in central Iowa since the '80s, announced the closure in a Facebook post on Saturday, citing lack of customers at its newest location for the decision.
The restaurant has changed storefronts multiple times during its decades in business, but its most recent move to 15700 Hickman Road in Clive proved to be "far more difficult than any we have experienced before".
"I cannot tell you how many local Clive/Waukee people have been in and did not even know we were there. Currently, I am at a loss and deeply saddened by this turn of events!" owner MJ Gazali told Local 5.
The business claims its not the first restaurant to struggle in this location, despite its previous accolades as Iowa's best gyros from Tasting Table.
"We are the most recent casualty in this location. Quizno’s, Pitta Pit, and Yesway Kitchens. We are not sure if is the busy Hickman corridor that makes it so difficult to get in or out ... Thank you for your support over the years! We will miss all of you!" the Facebook post reads in part.
But diehard Gazali's fans shouldn't give up just yet.
The business seemed to promise an eventual return, saying in part: "Please keep an eye on our website. Like the phoenix, we will be reborn."
You can read the full post below: