The statement shared on Instagram and Facebook reads, "After 42 years of serving this wonderful community, it is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of Nino’s Italian Restaurant. The challenges posed by changes in the economy and other hardships have led us to this difficult decision."
The restaurant went on to share 20 photos recapping the history of the restaurant featuring happy moments shared between staff members and its owners, along with their children who grew up inside the Boca Raton staple. The Tornabene family thanked the community for its continuous support.
The statement continues: "We are deeply grateful for the countless memories, the friendships, and the unwavering support you have shown us over the years. Your patronage has been the heart of our journey, and we cherish the relationships we’ve built with each of you. Thank you for being a part of our story. We will always treasure the moments shared and the joy we’ve had in serving you. The Nino’s/Tornabene family."
The loyal regulars who kept this destination in their own family for generations took to the comments to share their gratitude with the owners, all saddened to see the restaurant close: "Nino’s has been a family tradition for us for so many wonderful celebrations for years! You all will be forever held dear in our hearts with the greatest love and affection," wrote a regular. Another person wrote, "The end of an era. Nino’s will forever be a part of my childhood. It was a good long run that your family should be proud of. Forever home to the greatest chicken parm that comforted me through good and bad times. While Ninos may be closed, it will never be forgotten."
Another heartbroken fan wrote, "I was there just last month! My family has been going for the last 25 years — best food ever! We will miss Ninos so much! Please open another one, please!"
Nino’s of Boca Raton opened its doors in 1983 as a small pizzeria with only eleven tables. The family-owned establishment grew with local support and has since been operated by three generations of restaurateurs serving a wide variety of Italian staples.
Serving southern Italian-inspired dishes paired with an extensive wine menu, the small restaurant became part of the community and a place where families came to celebrate milestones or grab a dinner in a home-like atmosphere.
