CHICAGO — One of Chicago’s most iconic scenic restaurants has abruptly closed.

Crain’s Chicago Business first reported that The Signature Room at 95th, located at 875 North Michigan Avenue in Streeterville, is closing due to persisting “economic hardships” related to the post-COVID-19 pandemic.

The restaurant combined fine dining with unparalleled views of the city.

Jairo Guirro, a now-former employee, told WGN News he learned of the closing by e-mail.

“It said the 28th of September is your last day of work. I said, ‘What, why?’ Because I was working last night,” said Guirro, who worked in the kitchen for about a year doing food preparation and cooking.

Feeling blindsided by the abrupt closure, Guirro lamented the decision.

“It was not a job. It’s a family,” he said. “People were working here 30 years. I (was) working just one year, but it seems like a family,” he said.

Signature Room owners, Infusion Management Group, authored a letter explaining the decision:

It is with a heavy heart that we announce the permanent closing of our beloved Signature Room at 95th effective Thursday, September 28, 2023.

For over 30 years, we have had the privilege and honor of serving Chicagoans and visitors from all over the world.

Unfortunately, after the closure of our city and restaurant due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we have been faced with severe economic hardship and the challenges have been greater than anticipated.

From the bottom of our hearts, we want to thank you for your support over the years.

In an updated message, the owners added: “Though this chapter ends, our gratitude for your unwavering support remains steadfast. Every meal served, every toast raised, and every memory made was possible because of you. We are eternally grateful for the trust you placed in us to be part of your special moments.”

The Magnificient Mile staple in the former John Hancock building, now 875 North Michigan Avenue, recently celebrated its 30th birthday in July.

But for Leticia Vargas, she says being out of a job means not being able to provide for her family.

“It was difficult to walk out of here with our belongings,” she told WGN News. “There’s not much we can do now.”