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COLUMBIA (WACH) - A popular restaurant in Columbia has closed its doors for good.

General Manager Marina Collier confirmed Dianne's on Devine is closed after 24 years of serving the community.

The following statement from Dianne Light was e-mailed to customers and posted to the restaurant's Facebook page:

"Dear Friends,

With mixed emotions, we've closed Dianne's on Devine after 24 years, 18 of which have been on Devine Street. I've loved serving you for special occasions, business meetings or just a nice evening out over the years. You all are like family to us. To say we couldn't have done it all these years without you is an understatement. Thanks to you and our extremely dedicated staff, Dianne's on Devine has earned several accolades and awards over the years, including Best Fine Dining, Best Restaurant, and Best Overall Dining Experience.

There's no doubt that Ill miss serving you each night, but I'm very excited about the opportunity to continue my 40-year restaurant career by focusing on DiPratos Delicatessen and DiPratos Pimento Cheese. If you've had a sandwich at DiPratos or tasted our famous pimento cheese, you know why I'm excited about the next chapter!

Were currently working to notify everyone that has a reservation at Dianne's, and I'm happy that this isn't a goodbye, because I know Ill continue to see many of you at DiPratos!

From the bottom of our hearts, I thank you, Columbia! Cheers to the next chapter for all of us."