Sports bar The Sideline Grille in Hicksville closes

It was last call for The Sideline Grille in Hicksville, the burger and pizza joint that turned into a sports bar at night.

A sign taped to the restaurant door thanks “loyal customers,” notes that the decision to close was “not easy,” and adds: “The time has come for us to focus on our health, family and the next chapter of our lives.”

Ali Hupfer said her parents, Louise and Ernie Hupfer, closed up shop on Feb. 25.

In business for 16 years, The Sideline Grille became a local staple serving bacon cheeseburgers, chicken wings and pizza. At night it became a sports bar where locals could order snacks while they watched games.

Hupfer said that “for health reasons” her parents decided “to move on to better things and my family’s next venture.” She added, “They were just ready to retire.”