SALT Jax Beach holds one last celebration before closing after 13 years [Video]

A well-known Jacksonville Beach restaurant is holding one last celebration before closing its door Labor Day Weekend.

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Salt Jax Beach Bar has been open for 13 years.

Action News Jax Shanila Kabir spoke to managers who said this restaurant will be replaced with a new hotel. They said it could be a great business move and that Jacksonville is a fast-growing tourist destination now.

Store manager Evan Raita said this leaves a bittersweet feeling.

“Jacksonville Beach has got a lot of growth and it’s turning and it’s very emotional for us, but I get it as a business move, and I understand,” said Raita.

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SALT managers said their lease was up and the property was sold for $15 million in July to an Ocala-based company; they said their plans are to bring in a hotel.

However, many locals said there …