Goff’s Drive-In (Facebook) suffered severe damage in May this year when an arson set fire to the building, not once but twice, forcing it to close.
The shop, which is located at 212 S. Orange Blossom Trail [GMap], first opened in 1948 and was set to reopen to the public on July 18th but remained closed. The exterior signage was removed ahead of Hurricane Ian, when the owner said it was part of their prep tasks, but was never reinstalled when the hurricane passed, with no real updates until this week.
According to a somewhat convoluted message on Facebook from Goff’s owner, Todd Peacock, the shop has closed.
“My plan was to continue the legacy. My plan was to create more memories, meet more generations, [and] share in more celebrations. My children’s plans were to one day continue what Mr. Goff started and what you, our extended Orlando family have helped build. But, we also have learned, try as we might, we are not in control. He is. And we have no choice but to trust His purpose for us … Thank you, Orlando. This isn’t goodbye. This is see you later. We feel your love Orlando. And I hope you feel ours.”
– TODD PEACOCK, GOFF’S DRIVE IN OWNER
We’ve reached out to Peacock to clarify if he is actively seeking another space to reopen but have not heard back at the time of this post.
A GoFundMe that was launched in May 2022 had raised $6,742 to help reopen after the fire.
Why would some fool burn down a long-established business conveniently located in the Black community?