JENSEN BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — Mulligan’s Beach House, a longtime Jensen Beach staple, closed its doors after 23 years in business, with its final day of operation on Easter Sunday.

The owners announced the closure, citing rising costs—particularly rent—as the primary reason for leaving the location. They emphasized the decision was not related to a lack of customer support or weakening sales, but rather the inability to continue operating under increasingly expensive lease terms.

“For the past couple of years, we worked only to pay the exorbitant rent to the landlord,” the owners said. “Our business was strong—it had been for 23 years—but not strong enough to cover these expenses.”

According to the owners, they attempted to find a buyer for the Jensen Beach location for six months. However, potential buyers expressed similar concerns over the high cost of rent. The restaurant also noted the building had already become partially vacant, indicating other businesses in the area were facing the same financial pressures.

The owners expressed appreciation for the Jensen Beach community and thanked those who supported the restaurant over the years, including Ron Rose of the Chamber of Commerce, neighboring business owners, and Mulligan’s staff.

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“We love Jensen Beach, we will always be grateful for our time here and the support we received,” the statement said. “We wish you all nothing but the best in the future.”

Employees at the Jensen Beach location were offered transfers to Mulligan’s other restaurants in Vero Beach and Sebastian, and most accepted the option. The owners extended well-wishes to staff members who were unable to transition to the other locations.

Mulligan’s Vero Beach and Sebastian restaurants remained open following the Jensen Beach closure. The Vero Beach location continued to offer oceanfront dining with tiki tables, while the Sebastian restaurant provided patio seating overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, where guests frequently spot dolphins. (Mulligan's Beach House)

Mulligan’s Vero Beach and Sebastian restaurants remained open following the Jensen Beach closure. The Vero Beach location continued to offer oceanfront dining with tiki tables, while the Sebastian restaurant provided patio seating overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, where guests frequently spot dolphins. (Mulligan’s Beach House)

Mulligan’s Vero Beach and Sebastian restaurants remain open following the Jensen Beach closure. The Vero Beach location continues to offer oceanfront dining with tiki tables, while the Sebastian restaurant provides patio seating overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway, where guests frequently spot dolphins.

Community members were invited to stop by for a final farewell on Easter Sunday, marking the end of Mulligan’s two-decade run in Jensen Beach.