‘Time to close this chapter’: Another iconic business along Route 1 on North Shore closing for good

PEABODY, Mass. — Another iconic business along Route 1 on the North Shore of Massachusetts is closing its doors for good after serving customers for almost 70 years.

In a heartfelt post on Facebook, Anita and Bob Gokey announced the closure of Karl’s Sausage Kitchen & European Market at 1 Bourbon Street in Peabody.

“It is with a mixture of deep gratitude and heavy hearts that we announce the closure of Karl’s Sausage Kitchen after 67 unforgettable years,” Anita and Bob wrote in the post. “This decision was not made lightly, but after careful consideration, we believe it is the right time to close this chapter.”

Karl’s was opened by Karl Engel in 1958 on Route 1 in Saugus. The Gokeys took over the business in 2007 and moved it to Peabody.

Karl’s will officially close up shop on Saturday, Jan. 18, 2025.

“To our loyal customers, thank you for your unwavering support, your smiles, and the stories you’ve shared with us,” Anita and Bob added. “To our dedicated staff, thank you for your hard work, passion, and commitment to making Karl’s Sausage Kitchen a welcoming and cherished place.”

Karl’s is known for its handmade sausages, large selection of European deli meats, imported cheeses, and grocery items including imported chocolate, jellies, jams and sauces, cookies, and coffee.

Karl’s is the latest in a long list of businesses on Route 1 that have closed over the years.

The Continental Restaurant closed in November 2024. Santoro’s Sub-Villa closed in February 2019. Route One Miniature Golf, known for its orange dinosaur figure, closed in September 2016. The Hilltop Steakhouse closed in October 2013.

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