Sudden Closure of Iconic Longboat Key Restaurant Euphemia Haye Leaves 35 Staff Without Jobs—Community Launches GoFundMe to Help

For five decades, Euphemia Haye stood as a treasured fine dining institution on Longboat Key, known not just for its elevated cuisine, but for its romantic charm, candlelit ambiance, and world-class service. First opened in 1975 by Leslie “Les” R. Buntin, who named the restaurant after his grandmother, Euphemia Haye quickly evolved from a quaint one-room eatery into a must-visit destination for both locals and travelers seeking an unforgettable culinary experience.

In 1980, the restaurant was taken over by Chef Raymond Arpke and his wife, D’Arcy Arpke, who infused their passion and creativity into the operation for more than 40 years. Under their stewardship, Euphemia Haye earned rave reviews from Zagat, Wine Spectator, and Frommer’s Travel Guides, and it became a staple for celebrations, anniversaries, and return visits by loyal seasonal guests. In 2021, the Arpkes retired, entrusting the restaurant to longtime staff member Amy Whitt, who began as an administrative assistant in 2007 and later served as the bookkeeper.

But on an unassuming evening in late April 2025, diners and employees alike were stunned to find the restaurant unexpectedly shuttered, with only a handwritten note taped to the door stating it was closed for the evening and apologizing for the inconvenience. That note turned out to be the restaurant’s farewell—Euphemia Haye never reopened.

The sudden closure left 35 employees without notice or severance, many of whom have worked at the restaurant for decades and built meaningful relationships with guests spanning generations.

In the wake of the closure, former employee Teal O’Fee launched a GoFundMe campaign to assist displaced staff members as they seek new employment opportunities. Her heartfelt message captured the deep sense of loss felt by the team and the restaurant’s loyal customer base:

“A few of you have reached out to us individually and asked how you could help. We so appreciate the offers! They mean the world to us—as do you! We have been waiting on some of you and your families for 20 or 30 years. We know your kids and grandkids. We love seeing you come back every season—maybe with a few more gray hairs—on all of us. We are heartbroken. We love the restaurant. We love our coworkers. We love our customers and friends. We love what we do!”

A Culinary Landmark with a Unique Legacy

Euphemia Haye wasn’t just a restaurant—it was an experience. The building itself, nestled in lush tropical foliage, was a renovated cottage that featured a second-floor Haye Loft, known for its cozy bar, live jazz, and house-made desserts. The main dining room was synonymous with Chef Arpke’s renowned pepper-crusted duck, roast rack of lamb, and seasonal, locally inspired dishes.

The reasons for the abrupt shutdown have not been publicly disclosed. However, the outpouring of support from the community speaks volumes about the restaurant’s impact.

The GoFundMe campaign has quickly gained traction, with donations and messages of love flowing in from longtime patrons and friends. All funds raised will be evenly distributed among the 35 affected employees.

To support the staff of Euphemia Haye, visit:

👉 GoFundMe: Aid for Our Beloved Restaurant Staff

As one of Longboat Key’s longest-standing restaurants, Euphemia Haye may have closed its doors, but its legacy—and the bonds formed there—continue to live on through the community it served.

Photo from Facebook