Long lines pack outside of beloved Antioch steakhouse closing after 42 years

(KRON) — The end is near for a beloved steakhouse in Antioch that has served the greater East Bay community for decades. After 42 years, Mac’s Old House is having its last day of business on Sunday, June 22, which was announced by the restaurant back in April.

As the last day gets closer, it seems more and more customers are lining up to get a taste of Mac’s Old House one last time. KRON4 visited the establishment on Sunday, and it was at full capacity with long lines that went across the block.

The long lines tell the story of how much Mac’s Old House has meant to the Antioch community since first opening in 1983. Support from its customers allowed Mac’s Old House to survive recessions and a global pandemic for more than four decades, Mac’s Old House writes on its website.

In today’s age of mostly digitized payments, Mac’s Old House has remained a cash-only establishment. The restaurant, located at 3100 E 18th St., might be best known for its consumer-friendly deals — especially for the prime rib. A prime rib starts at $17.95, and a pasta dinner is listed at $9.95.

Hundreds of loyal patrons are saddened by the closure. Comments on Mac’s Old House’s Instagram and Facebook pages have even clamored for the business to stay open.

“I so hope someone decides to take over and save this gem for the community and all the patrons who love this institution,” one comment on Facebook reads.

A Mac’s Old House fan even said they will be making a trip to the restaurant from Montana one last time before the closure.

“Thank you guys for amazing food and so many great memories with family and friends. Truly my favorite restaurant ever since I was a little one. Hoping someone will purchase and keep the legacy alive!! I’ll be making a trip from Montana to have one more of my favorite meals,” another Facebook comment reads.

The good news?

Mac’s Old House says, “there is still hope for the future.” The business did not rule out the possibility of staying open under new ownership and management. The restaurant and property are up for sale.

Mac’s Old House is open every day from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. The restaurant does not take reservations and operates on a first-come, first-served basis.