Rootimentary announces it will close this weekend

Rootimentary, an upscale restaurant that opened in Laurens in late 2022, announced it is closing its doors tonight (Saturday, May 25).

Owners Caleb and Jess Satterfield cited family concerns surrounding the health of their young son as the reason behind the closure.

“This decision will allow Chef Caleb and Jess to be home with their son more often, following a diagnosis that requires a little more of their time,” the family announced in a social media post.

Holmes Development, which owns the former Swofford Building that is home to the restaurant, said through its social media that it will be seeking a new eatery for the space. Holmes and the Satterfields also said a planned bar for downstairs the developers are calling “The Speakeasy” is also waiting to open.

When it opened, Rootimentary gave Laurens the steakhouse locals had been awaiting since the closure of Ryan’s Family Steakhouse and Buffet around a decade ago. Among other Southern-inspired fare created by Chef Satterfield, Rootimentary’s menu featured filet mignon and ribeye steaks. The menu also featured locally sourced food from area farms.

“The space is in the process of renovations and will operate as a restaurant and bar once more. Jess and Caleb are committed to working alongside the Holmes family and the City of Laurens to find a suitable tenant who will love and serve our beloved town well,” the Rootimentary announcement read. “The Speakeasy is also coming soon and there will be so many opportunities for you to create more memories in this beautiful building.”

The Satterfields’ post continued, “This has been a difficult decision, as we have made so many wonderful relationships since beginning this journey. You’ve made us feel loved and we are blown away by the support we have felt from so many of you. We appreciate your ongoing support and invite you to join us this weekend as we close out our time before giving another restaurant their turn.”

Beth Holmes reiterated on social media Holmes Development’s commitment to the restaurant and bar.

“This first chapter in this space has been a huge learning experience for all involved, and we are already forward focused. Stay tuned,” she wrote.

Rootimentary is the fourth restaurant and/or bar to close in Laurens County over the past few months. Steamer’s and Big Boy’s restaurants recently closed their doors in Clinton as did Stogie’s Cigar Bar.