MIAMI — The Last Carrot, a beloved Coconut Grove restaurant that has nourished locals for five decades, served its final customers this week as owner Erin Compton closes the doors to make way for a new development.

“The property was sold as a joint venture and they are doing a new development on the property so our time has been complete,” Compton said.

The restaurant first opened in 1975 across the street from its current location along Grand Avenue near Matilda Street by Compton’s father, Michael.

Erin Compton took over in 2001 following her father’s passing.

“I think he really wanted to provide people with nourishment and way before it’s time,” Compton said. “These four walls have not just given me a safe place, but my community a safe place. You come as you are when here.”

For longtime customers, The Last Carrot was more than just meals.

Barbara Lange, a loyal patron, said, “Every sad thing that’s happened in my life, this would be the place I’d come. They’d know I was sad. A dog died, got a speeding ticket.”

Lange added, “I’m feeling sad, also happy for Erin because Erin is probably going to get a break for a while.”

Over the years, Compton built strong bonds with her community.

“Our community wants to feel seen. When you make eye contact, you remember their order. That just sits differently with people,” she said. “I’ve made people feel seen and this week that has been mirrored back to me.”

“He’d be so happy. He’d be so proud,” Lange said, reflecting on Compton’s father. “The legacy is the community. The support when we all feel supported you can’t been unstopped.”

As for what’s next, Compton plans to take a well-deserved pause and hopes to one day find a new location in Coconut Grove.

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