The owners of the Danish Inn in Elk Horn announced through e-mails and social media Wednesday evening, that the restaurant will close its doors for good next week, after more than 30-years in business. Owner Verne Kline said in an e-mail to the businesses customers, “It is with much sadness that we must announce that the Danish Inn, after over 30 years of operation will be closing at the end of next week. The high cost of providing quality food and service has made continuing impossible for us. Thank you for your loyalty, friendship and past patronage. Verne Kline, Jacqui and Jeremy Christensen.” Their last day of business is March 7th.

On the restaurant’s Facebook page, the comments ranged from shock and sadness, to anger and disappointment. The business said in response, “We are sad too we have tried everything to stay open, summers have been good but winter was brutal this year a real lack of business and decent weather rising food costs and wage increases we appreciate all of you and your business.”

The closing of The Danish Inn marks yet another loss for residents seeking family-owned and operated businesses in the area. A little more than two-years ago, Mikels Family Restaurant in Harlan closed after more than 60-years in business. In December 2012, The Farmer’s Kitchen, a family-owned restaurant in Atlantic, closed its doors after more than a dozen years in business.