Longtime Folsom restaurant known for river views closes abruptly. Here’s what we know

A longtime Folsom restaurant has shut its doors, according to a voice recording that plays on the its direct phone line.

“Thank you for calling Cliff House,” the recording says. “We are now closed permanently. Thank you for your support.”

However, it was unclear as of Wednesday exactly when Cliff House of Folsom, located at 9900 Greenback Lane, shut down or why.

What is Cliff House of Folsom?

Perched above the American River in the heart of Folsom’s Historic District, Cliff House of Folsom was known for its deckside views and American-style menu.

“Located in the heart of Folsom’s Historic District, our local eatery is made to be a place where our beloved customers can indulge in a delicious meal and amazing Lake Natoma views,” the restaurant said on its Facebook page.

Cliff House of Folsom was named “best new restaurant” in 1990 by Five Star Review, The Orangevale News reported at the time.

The restaurant served breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Offerings included small plates, gourmet burgers, fresh fish and New World-style fusion dishes.

What happened to the restaurant?

Although Cliff House of Folsom’s website had been taken down as of Wednesday afternoon, the restaurant’s Facebook page and Instagram account remained active.

In a Dec. 27 post on Cliff House of Folsom’s Facebook page, the most recent one available, the restaurant said it was hosting a “DJ and dancing” on New Year’s Eve.

Health inspectors with the Sacramento County Environmental Management Department visited the restaurant on Dec. 5 and reported that it had a total of eight violations — including a couple of dead cockroaches and food being held at improper temperatures. This resulted in the restaurant receiving a yellow placard.

A reinspection was conducted on Dec. 6 and the restaurant received a green placard.

It was unclear Wednesday if the restaurant’s closure was related to the health code violations.

The Sacramento Bee reached out to the restaurant’s owner and management, but calls for comment had not been returned as of Wednesday afternoon.

The Bee also looked for the business on the California Secretary of State website, but could not locate it there.