And on Saturday night, closing night, she was the first customer.

"It's sort of bittersweet, because you're really, really happy for them to move on," she said.

"But as soon as I walked in I took one look at Graham (Manvell) and burst into tears."

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Two customers got engaged at sSs BBQ Barns. Another couple had their first date there, a quarter of a century ago next month. Others the Leader spoke to at the packed restaurant have simply been going every week for 10 years, 20 years, 27 years.

Owner Graham Manvell calls them family.

It was a special night for all of them.

After announcing last week the iconic Tamworth business would close the place has been packed. The chef estimates he's turned away "a thousand" would-be diners.

Mindie Lewis travelled from the Central Coast for the occasion - the last birthday party the restaurant will ever see.

There's a lot of memories in the place for the Manvells. sSs, once judged NSW's best steak restaurant, was badly damaged by fire in 2011. But it recovered, with the help of its fierce crowd of supporters.

But for the husband-and-wife business owners it's time to move on for shorter-hours, lower octane life.

Graham, a three time Culinary Olympian, is moving on into a corporate role and will serve as an international judge.

Marlene will take over their wineries and other businesses.