McKee’s Pub & Grill in Winooski to close; owner cites construction issues, financial struggles

A local staple in the heart of Winooski is closing later this month after the owner cited ongoing financial issues related to major construction downtown.McKee’s Pub & Grill is set to close its doors for good on Aug. 17, according to a post by the restaurant’s owners on Facebook.In the letter, McKee’s cited a number of reasons for the decision to close permanently, including increased costs, insurance and new and additional taxes.The letter goes on to list “the biggest factor, the ongoing and continuing construction issues affecting sales,” that has caused the restaurant to operate at a loss.The owners said the restaurant is down nearly 70% in sales, with construction slated to continue for several years, making the operation no longer viable.”I am personally broken inside that we could not make this work,” the letter reads in part. Owners Ryan and Jamie thanked their patrons over the years for their support as well as their staff for their hard work.McKee’s has been located in the Winooski circle since 1987.