The downtown Carrboro bar and restaurant 401 Main is set to permanently close — a move forecasted by the business’ call for community support earlier in the winter.
Chris Baldwin, who owns and runs the venture with his wife Emily, shared a post on Facebook Tuesday announcing that the business would permanently close after Tuesday, Feb. 4. The self-described “upscale dive bar” known for its position in the triangular intersection between East Main Street and West Rosemary Street will end a run of business that began when it opened in Sep. 2019.

Photo via 401 Main on Facebook.
“As we look back over the last 5 years, we are grateful for every challenge and triumph that has shaped us at 401 Main,” Baldwin wrote in his post, which was also shared on the bar’s Facebook page. “The connections we have forged and the memories we have created are the true essence of this little spot in the heart of Carrboro. So many of you have become family. Though the journey was not what we expected at the beginning (nor at the end), and we often found it arduous; the laughter, camaraderie, and shared experiences made it all worthwhile.”
The update comes after the Baldwins shared a GoFundMe campaign on Dec. 8 saying they needed a boost from 401 Main’s patrons to help keep the doors open through the winter. The post cited the financial stretch the restaurant made to remain open during the COVID-19 pandemic, but fell well short of its listed fundraising goal.
In its final “swan song,” Baldwin said 401 Main will offer food and drink specials — and offered a special thanks to the bar’s mainstays and a message looking to the future.
“Here’s to the future, to new adventures, and the enduring spirit of 401 Main,” he wrote. “We have been honored to have you by our side and are excited for all that lies ahead.”
Editor’s Note: An initial version of this story incorrectly said Feb. 4 was a Sunday, not a Tuesday.
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