NORTH CAROLINA -- The kitchen's closed at an Old Salem landmark.

The Tavern in Old Salem served its final meal on New Year's Eve.

The restaurant has been serving locally-sourced Moravian-style food since 1972.

Longtime customers say its closure is a loss for Winston-Salem, but they're holding out hope for a comeback.

The Tavern was the oldest continuously operating tavern in North Carolina.

Old Salem management will seek proposals to reopen another restaurant in the space.