BELLINGHAM - The Bayside Cafe, a waterfront restaurant that has operated since 1994, abruptly ceased operations.

The restaurant at 1801 Roeder Ave. did not open for business Monday, Oct. 1, but posted a sign saying it was closed, apologizing for the inconvenience and thanking customers for their business.

The closure came as a surprise to Shirley McFearin, the Port of Bellingham's real estate development manager.

"They've been a great long-standing tenant and the port has valued their business," she said.

The operators of the cafe, Jim Brown and his son, Mitch, could not be reached for comment.

McFearin said the lease for the space runs through May 15, 2014, so it's possible someone else could take over the lease and continue to operate it.

"It's a fantastic location for a restaurant," said McFearin, who added that people interested in the space would need to contact Jim or Mitch Brown.

Reach DAVE GALLAGHER at dave.gallagher@bellinghamherald.com or call 715-2269. Visit his business blog online at blogs.bellinghamherald.com/business or get updates on Twitter at twitter.com/BhamHeraldBiz.