Huntsville, AL, August 8, 2025
News Summary
Rafael’s Table, a cherished gourmet cooking store in Huntsville, will permanently close at the end of August due to owner Abbe Diaz’s colon cancer diagnosis. The store is known for its small-batch pasta, gourmet food, and popular cooking classes. Diaz has relocated to Nashville for treatment and expressed deep gratitude for the community’s support. Before closing, all inventory will be discounted by 50%, and classes will continue until the final day of operation, marking the end of a beloved local establishment.
Huntsville Gourmet Cooking Store Rafael’s Table to Close Due to Owner’s Cancer Diagnosis
Rafael’s Table, a beloved gourmet cooking store located in Huntsville, is set to permanently close its doors at the end of August, following owner Abbe Diaz’s recent diagnosis of colon cancer. Diaz made the announcement of her illness three weeks ago and has since relocated to Nashville to receive treatment at Vanderbilt University.
The shop, situated in the Village East shopping center at the intersection of Whitesburg Drive and Bob Wallace Avenue, is well-known for its offerings of small-batch pasta, gourmet food, kitchen supplies, and a variety of cooking classes. Originally opened in 2021 at the Lowe Mill arts center, Rafael’s Table moved to its current location last year to establish a more permanent presence in the community.
Throughout its time in business, Rafael’s Table hosted numerous cooking classes that included popular recipes such as lobster mac and cheese, ginger soy glazed salmon, filet mignon eggs benedict, and Cajun alfredo with crawfish. The classes were known for bringing people together, fostering a sense of community among participants who shared their passion for cooking.
Community Response
Diaz expressed the significant emotional connection she has formed with the community through her store in a heartfelt social media post titled “A Fond Farewell.” This post resonated deeply with local patrons, garnering approximately 375 reactions that reflected care and sadness over the impending closure. Many customers took to the comments section to share personal stories about how Rafael’s Table impacted their culinary experiences and enriched their lives.
Inventory and Closing Details
Before officially closing, Rafael’s Table will reduce all inventory prices by 50% and will remain open every Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. until the end of August. Cooking classes will still be conducted up until the closure, with sessions taught by a substitute chef, Chef Molly. After the closing date, the business plans to sell its interior fixtures and cooking class equipment, transitioning out of business operations while still honoring the legacy it has built in Huntsville.
Conclusion
As Abbe Diaz shifts her focus to health and recovery, she expressed her gratitude for the community’s ongoing support and encouraged residents to carry their warmth with them. Rafael’s Table has not just been a small business but has transformed into a gathering space where locals came together over food and creativity.
FAQ
Why is Rafael’s Table closing?
The store is closing due to owner Abbe Diaz’s diagnosis of colon cancer, requiring her to relocate for treatment.
When will Rafael’s Table close?
Rafael’s Table will officially close at the end of August.
What are the store’s operating hours until closure?
The store will remain open on Fridays and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. until the end of the month.
Will there be any sales before closing?
Yes, all stock will be discounted by 50% leading up to the store’s closure.
What will happen to the cooking classes?
Cooking classes will continue to be held throughout August, taught by Chef Molly during this period.
Key Features of Rafael’s Table
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Village East shopping center, Whitesburg Drive and Bob Wallace Avenue, Huntsville |
| Ownership | Abbe Diaz |
| Closure Date | End of August |
| Discounts | All stock at 50% off until closing |
| Cooking Class Offerings | Lobster mac and cheese, ginger soy glazed salmon, filet mignon eggs benedict, Cajun alfredo with crawfish |
| Future Plans | Sell fixtures and class equipment after closure |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Hville Blast: Rafael’s Table Closure
- AL.com: Chef Closing Beloved Local Business
- Rocket City Now: Rafael’s Table Final Sale
- Wikipedia: Cancer
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Cancer
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTSVILLE WRITER
The HUNTSVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHuntsville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntsville, Madison County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Panoply Arts Festival, Rocket City Brewfest, and Huntsville Comic & Pop Culture Expo. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntsville/Madison County Chamber of Commerce and HudsonAlpha Institute for Biotechnology, plus leading businesses in aerospace, defense, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Boeing, SAIC, and Mazda Toyota Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBirmingham.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
