The Commons Restaurant in Little Compton is closing temporarily, effective Sunday, June 1, but is expected to reopen in the future.

Rumors began circulating earlier this week in the very small Little Compton community that one of the town’s only eateries, a beloved restaurant that has been run by the same family for nearly 60 years, would be permanently closing. Those rumors are only partially true.

Cheryl Tammaro, daughter of Commons Restaurant owner Barbara Crowther, reached the Sakonnet Times hours after an inaccurate story was posted here at Eastbayri.com, to explain what is really happening.

“Our current plan is to temporarily close for a short period to give management a much needed break and to regroup with a new plan,” Tammaro said. “Following the break, we will likely reopen periodically for special events and private parties. More information to follow.”

Interviewed by phone, Tammaro said the Common Restaurant property — known to most locals as the site of the “Commons Lunch” (as it was named for many years) — remains for sale, as it has been for more than a year. The current asking price is $1.1 million.

Tammaro said she understands why there is a lot of interest in the present and future of the restaurant. Partly it’s because Little Compton is a “food desert,” with very few options for anyone hoping to dine out. Partly it’s because the quaint gathering place holds fond memories for so many locals and regulars.

Opened in 1966 by the late George Crowther and his wife, Barbara, the restaurant has been run by the same family for these 59 years.

Editor’s note: A story that briefly appeared on Eastbayri.com on Thursday, May 29, stated that the Commons Restaurant was closing permanently. That story was not accurate. We apologize for error.