A family-run restaurant in Bristol city centre has confirmed it is closing down in a heartfelt message to its customers. La Grotta, an Italian restaurant on Union Street, Broadmead, will be serving its last meal this week after almost half a century.
"To all of our wonderful customers and followers...unfortunately, the rumours are true.....La Grotta will be serving its last meal on Saturday 3rd June. After over 50 years of trading from our Union Street home, we are closing," the co-owner Andrea Merlino and his family said in a statement on the restaurant's Facebook page.
La Grotta claims to be one of Bristol's oldest restaurants pairing traditional Italian cooking and a welcoming atmosphere. It has been run by the same family for the past 35 years - having previously been called The Bali - and was often used as a space for events, parties and celebrations for diners over the years.
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The much-loved restaurant, which has 4.4 and 4.5 ratings on Google and TripAdvisor respectively, said the closure was "the right thing" for the team. It was best known for its traditional trattoria recipes and its weekly cheesecake specials.
Their statement continued: "From life as the Bali and my Papa Alfonso being waiter, to La Grotta as it is today, we have met amazing people and staff. It has been an absolute privilege to serve you all and part of the celebrations, from weddings, Christenings, proposals, office parties and school events.
"After nearly half a century, we hope that we have provided a welcoming and warm space for our amazing food....and provided a few memories along the way!! It is not a decision that we have taken lightly, we are all one big family, but ultimately, it is the right thing for us.
"We want to go out at the top of our game and our terms. We hope to welcome you all for our last ever week of trading, so please get in touch to book a table or just pop in for an Aperol or Moretti for a chat and to say goodbye!"
The announcement has been met with hundreds of comments from customers over the years. Many shared their memories while others said they would be attending for one final meal this week.
Katie Tiley commented that she had been visiting the restaurant for 40 years and that it was the "best Italian" restaurant in the city. Sarah Jefferies said: "I have such happy fun memories of my hen night there, over 30 years ago."
Pauline Copeman added: "So sad your food is delicious especially your gluten free pizza best in the UK. Good luck on your next adventure."
Susan White wrote: "Thankyou to this fantastic family for providing us with such great food friendship and fun over the years ! We started eating here on 1978!"
La Grotta also made headlines in 2021 after offering the restaurant as a safe space for people in the city after the killings of Sabina Nessa and Sarah Everard. Its last day of service will be on June 3, 2023.
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