The owners blamed the closing on the economic downturn.
Sitar at 1688 Main St. in SpringfieldThe economic slump has claimed a popular downtown Springfield restaurant.
Sitar at 1688 Main St, located next door to the Paramount Theatre, has closed its doors.
A sign left on the door Tuesday read: "It is with deep regret that we are forced to inform you that we have closed our restaurant as a direct result of the historic economic conditions currently existing."
Patrons were informed the ownership hopes to one day reopen Sitar and urged them to return if and when that time comes.
"In the meantime, we wish you the best of luck and thank you for your two decades of patronage," the note concluded.
Sitar opened its doors in the summer of 1990 and quickly became popular for its authentic Indian cuisine.
In 2008, a kitchen fire caused $100,000 in damage, forcing owner Malkit Singhto close the eatery for five weeks.
The restaurant employed several workers and offered seating for 62 patrons.