Picabu Neighborhood Bistro is closing

Picabu Neighborhood Bistro is closing Dec. 15.

The small South Hill restaurant opened in 2005, taking its name from the fact it’s a cozy, tucked-away spot.

Picabu is known for its curry bowl, shrimp phad thai, grilled chicken gyros, Fire Pasta and Cactus Burger, topped with pepperjack cheese, mixed greens, tomato, marinated red onions, bacon and more.

Food Network star Guy Fieri grubbed on the Cactus Burger when he visited Picabu in 2010. And, according to the network’s website, “The chicken and corn pot stickers with homemade wrappers kept him coming back for more.”

Customers can still enjoy the dishes after Picabu closes; owner Jane Edwards has published a cookbook “with all our recipes.” It’s for sale at the restaurant.

After 13 and a half years at Picabu, Edwards is retiring. She said she’s heard from many customers who are sad to see Picabu shuttered.

But, “on a positive note, I have succeeded in doing exactly what I set out to do. Provide a great place, with great food. It was by far the hardest decision I have ever made. But it was time.”

Picabu is at 901 W. 14th Ave. Call (509) 624-2464.

On the web: www.picabu-bistro.com.