Word has it that Caffe Italia -- the East Boston restaurant, cafe and bar owned by Tony and Donna Olivierio -- is being sold. Speculation is that the business, located at 150 Meridian Street, is going to be converted into a Colombian eatery.
47 comments:
Anonymous
said...
If it is true, then so sad to see him go! They had the best broccoli rabe and pretty good drinks! I figured something was up when the lounge was no longer in operation. Hopefully we will have a similar, responsible operator taking over the reins, with good food and atmosphere. He sold the one up the heights which now offers a fusion of sorts (Colombian-Italian) - the calamari was really good. I wonder if its the same owner.
If it is true, this is the point where the community process can be meaningful when it comes to store fronts and signage - which Tony did a pretty good job with in Central Square. We missed the boat last time when Tony sold Cafe Italia II as well as when Italian Express left the Heights. Its too late once the transfer has occurred.
It should be a condition of support that any transfer of licenses or permits to any new operator must include restrictions and perhaps a written agreement (with Main Streets or the Chamber, whoever) by the new operators that they will honor a signage layout and style that follows current zoning, corrects non-conforming signage, and is adaptive to Main Street type requirements.
Clark Moulaison, Joe Ruggiero, Sal LaMattina, and John Forbes get on the same page here - this is where your leverage needs to be excersiced to clean up our signage mess! If the proposed new owner is resistant and refuses to be a responsible owner, then clearly it would be appropriate to withold support and perhaps oppose any proposed transfer.
GREAT... Just what we need. Another mediocre Columbian eatery. The conversion of Cafe Italia II was a travesty, now we learn the original is going away. I don't understand why a Burger King gets shut down but any Latin themed restaurant that wants to open gets free reign to do what they want (Tequilla's anyone?).
People out there that wonder what happened to the old East Boston, it was SOLD!
Someone should step up to the plate and open a cafe s1m1lar to cafe 1tal1a- 1ts sad to see 1t go- obv1ously most of the longt1me 1tal1an fam1l1es are leav1ng or have already left East Boston-
What a disappointment. Cafe Italia I and Cafe Italia II have been favorite restaurants for my family. Both locations provided a pleasant environment, excellent food and wonderful waitstaff who knew how best to serve their clientele. Tony and Donna did an outstanding job of decorating the interior and exterior of each location and that attention to detail is lacking in many East Boston eateries.
Both venues were also true family restaurants. My children joined their parents often at the Cafe Italias and learned to appreciate a fine dining establishment, while never leaving their hometown.
A void will be created in East Boston by the absence of these two restaurants. I, for one, will no longer feel disloyal to East Boston by taking my discretionary funds for dining out to establishments outside of East Boston that mirror the quality that I had come to expect and to enjoy each time I visited Cafe Italia.
By the way, Vinnie, we'll will miss your special Espresso Martinis, Cosmos and capuccinos. Good luck to your family with your future endeavors.
Wow! I am just sick and saddened. Cafe Italia is truly the anchor of Central Square for a lot of East Boston lifers. I'm with Jimbo when he infers that it doesn't have to be an Italian eatery to be quality. Hopefully whoever takes over the space will be inspired by the existing decor, and most likely the expense of acquiring it, to maintain it in a similar manner.
Just another of many sad chapters in "The Old Est Boston".
However; This should not be judged by what type of nationality the buyers are.
Directly across the street is a new restaurant opening this week called Roticeria Cancun,and they are one of the most responsible owners around.Great food,and menus in both Spanish,and English.
Now to the comments about the transfer;
Fact! If the buyer passes the same Credit / Background check ,and its not being moved ! The Licensing Board considers it a simple transfer ,and does not require any kind of community process.
I also beleive the anons post about the Burger King issue. He is reapplying,and I think has a very good shot this time around. He has found old pictures of the building,and wants to renovate it back to its Historical look ,including the nice steeple that was on the top.
I wish the Cafe Italia owners the best of Luck,and the same for the new owners.
So as far as anyone thinking they can stop it because they may not like where the new owners come from,its simply not going to happen.
It is sad but at least we will get people with better attitudes as owners. Although it was a nice place the owners were rude, they made you feel like you were bothering them. Good luck to the new owners and I hope they will be good to the community.
I thought the following might be of value in our discussions of local or political topics. Some of the overtly hostile posts stopped me from publishing my blog after only a few posts. http://www.colorado.edu/conflict/civility.htm
All of these topics should receive public scrutiny and merit rigorous debate. However, without well reasoned arguments it would be difficult for the BRA, City Hall, or any of the interested parties to take our neighborhood seriously.
Everyone is dancing around what type of restuarant--whether it be Italian, Colombian, etc.--but if it is going to be Colombian someone should come right out and say we don't need it. I agree with Jimbo, Angela's Cafe, Taco Mex, etc. are all great and I too frequent those estamblishments but how many Latino eateries does one small neighborhood need. What we need is variety. Go to Central Sq. in Cambridge--there Italian, French Wine Bar Bistros, Latino, Indian, Thai and numerous other types of eateries make up the fabric of that community and everyone in the neighborhood frequents them. If it becomes a Colombian place I predict none of Cafe Italia's old clientele will go there, it will become shut off to the community at large and serve only a small cross section of the neighborhood and fail to become a 'hot spot'. That's the problem with licensing and community development in Boston--there's no oversight and no planning. This would never happen in other Boston enclave's like Beacon Hill or the South End because people there are allowed to control thier future. It's not a race thing, its an economic thing. Wouldn't it be better to have a bunch of different kind of restaurants that all do well than a whole bunch of similiar restuarants that do poorly? Eastie should be changing it up and telling potential owners--'look we have 25 places to get a burrito maybe try a tapas wine bar type cafe instead and then we'll support you'. Burger King was the first salvo fired in this battle to have variety and not the same old but we need to keep it up. We have a Brazilian place that's excellent. We have a Mexican restuarant that is also very good. We have Asian, Italian, Yuppie, wouldn't it be nice to have French, Thai, Indian or some other fare that will excite the entire community and not another Latino place that most people will never try.
Maybe it's apples and oranges, but no one complains that the North End has too many Italian restaurants.
I agree that I'd love to see a mix of places to eat in East Boston, but the area from Maverick to Central Square to Day Square is a predominantly Latino neighborhood, so we'll continue to see eateries that cater to that clientèle.
People who open businesses need to have a steady customer base to survive, and if a wine bar or an Indian restaurant could make a profit here someone would likely be trying it.
I am saddened by the close of Cafe Italia. Not that is's to place blame or anything but it appears at times that these establishments in Eastie are not supported by their own in large numbers. Zafferano, I agree was pricey but the food was incredible, probably the most authentic in the State. A meal at Zafferano was like having a meal in Naples, Italy.
As for another Latino type establishment I agree with some of the posts, I enjoy those restaurants as well and again the authenticity of columbian, peruvian, mexican etc can not be beat! But I don't think we need another one. I wish that more restauranteurs would invest in Eastie and open other varieties such as sushi, thai, steakhouses, and more, but how can they when they are side by side with businesses that are not up to par in design, price etc. The more low end the more of it we will get.
Furthermore, it seems that when high end restaurants want to open up the community immediately jumps down there throat. I just hope that the new place opening at Sablone's will be supported by the community. I know we need a place like this and the owner believes in the community, if he/she relied on study analysis like most potentential business ownersdo we would probably not even get a place like this.
Finally, farewell to Cafe Italia we will miss you!
No one complains about the North End because its an entirley different audience. It's a tourist trap ans that's why there's 700 pizza and Italian restaurants and bakeries one after the other. No tourists are coming to Eastie so we need variety not a hundred Latino restaurants. Better yet why do we even need another eatery--we have enough. It seems everytime there's a commericial property or vancant building it's automatically turned inot either a restaurant or condos. How about a nice clothing store. How about a bookstore cafe. How about a place to buy a suit or even a dress shirt or tie. We have none of this in Eastie so lets not get into a contest about Italian vs. Colombian vs Asian and lets stand up and say we have enough places to get a bite to eat we need something else to stir the local economy.
Amen Anonymous @ 9:59 a.m. At what point are we not over saturated with places to eat. Is this not the only thing entrepreneurs can come up with? What is our Chamber of Commerce doing to drive some new economic ideas?
I did write that the North End and East Boston are apples and oranges, and I would certainly love to see a bookstore or cafe or even a bookstore cafe where Caffe Italia is, but it -- or a clothing store or most anything else -- would probably not survive. I don't want to see dozens of restaurants serving similar food, but if there is a market for it then people will take advantage of that.
There;s no market because nobody has ever tried. You say there's a market for Latino eateries from Maverick to Central Sq. and beyond because of the Latino poulation--look at how many of these places have opened and closed over the years (I beleive the most recent was the Purvian joint that took over Victors). No audeince, no need, no market there Jimbo--even in a heavily Latino poulated area. Take a walk arounf Eastie and peer into these establishments, Monte Christo, el Buen Gusto, Pollo whatever--they are all empty all the time. How is this economic progression? It's not. Hell, even when Eastie was mostly white Italians a lot of Italian places failed except for a handful of truly good staples. I say no more food and we should put a freeze on these types of licenes and licenses to run groceries in order to attract different kinds of business to Eastie. That's what the Chamber should be doing and lobbying for because a dozen or two good places to eat are enough for an Island that is two miles wide and six miles long we don't need 200 restaurants. We need to take a chance on something else unless its an eatery that is truly unique like 303 Cafe.
Hey, I agree! I'm not advocating for more of one type of restaurant, but I don't think you can put a freeze on them and who gets to decide what is unique or what isn't?
It's too bad Caffe Italia is being sold as we speak. The building and signage was kept up nice...the new owners hopefully will not rip down the awnings and through up cheap signs and neon lights!!
Also, the "drinking crowd" was never out of control or loud, this better stay the same way or we will have another "Tequilla's."
I agree that this area needs variety!! With the new condos being built (The Seville), business owners and community memebers should be standing up and demanding variety!!
I know it would be disheartning to local businesses if a Border Cafe was put in The Seville...that would crush local businesses.
I fully support the idea of small, local businesses and everyone in the community should also. With that being said, a variety in businesses is key to sustain and increase growth in the central square area.
I do not want to or hope to see Caffe Italia turn into a full fledged bar...there current liquor license allows for many hours of bar time.
This situation does need to be monitored closely. I do not want drunks walking the streets all day (or night) after going there for one too many drinks!! That's what was good about Caffe Italia it had a blend of eating and drinking, but for some reason I can see the place being turned into a full bar with not much more to offer.
This really is sad for the neighborhood...it is too bad that someone else didn't step up to the plate and buy the building and business!! Maybe then, the variety would have come.
Caffe 1tal1a 1s now on Hun1ngton st Boston- they've gone upscale-1f they rema1ned on mer1d1an st they would rema1n downscale- The Joeys and Tony's and Jo ann's of East Boston have bought passes for a fl1ght out to the north shore and never returned.Therefore Caffe 1tal1a was not depend1ng on new bus1ness from new arr1vals so they to bought a pass for a fl1ght out- as for the new owners do not pant the outs1de of the bu1ld1ng yellow
East Boston needs PANERA - TRADER JOES -PEETS COFFEE- A GOURMET SHOPPE- A Couple of Art Gallery Storefronts- P1zzer1a Reg1nas 1nstead of papa g1nos- hopefully the new apartment bu1ld1ng be1ng developed on mer1d1en st by the Lombardo clan w1ll probably have trader joes 1n the space below a perfect f1t
This is a bummer. I love this place. Regardless of what goes in there to replace it, it won't have the great espresso and lobster ravioli within walking distance of home. Sigh.
I agree that it is sad to see another Eastie business leave, but DO NOT agree with Anon at 5:59.
Eastie does not need a bunch of chains coming in droves. The people of East Boston need to support the small businesses that are here or they all will leave also!!!
That is the wrong attitude to have...you should be the first one lining up at the small businesses that are here instead of running to Trader Joe's, PEET's, etc.
Look at other neighborhoods...they thrive on the small businesses. Eastie needs variety, but the neighborhood should remain a catalyst for new, small businesses that will want to come and STAY here!!!
There are many people who go to East Boston specifically because they know they're going to get great Latin food--be it Mexican, Peruvian, Brazilian, or Colombian.
For those who say there's no variety of food in East Boston, I think "Latin" food is being lumped together a bit irresponsibly. It's very much akin to saying that Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisine is the same because "it's all Asian" or that Italian, French, Spanish, and German cuisine is the same because "it's all European."
Mexican, Colombian, Brazilian, Peruvian, Salvadoran, Argentine and Ecuadoran cuisines are completely different from one another.
Opening a Colombian restaurant would not be adding "more of the same" to East Boston. It would be adding diversity to the list of restaurants East Boston offers the City of Boston.
Signed, Someone from Back Bay who Enjoys Eating in Eastie
I just read the East Boston Times and the story on Caffe Italia and a few other stories in the paper.
Then, I read the Hubster and began to compare and wonder?!?
It appears to me that a certain reporter for the East Boston Times appears to be not so "anonymous" or is taking many many postings from the Hubster and using them in the paper.
I understand that all these cuisines are different but look into the windows and at the menus it seems people from Colombia, El Salvador, etc. do not serve thier traditional native fare rather a Americanized verision of it that all seems the same.
To the anon on 3/12 @ 12:04 The East Boston Times is a disservice to the community. Don't even bother reading it. there is nothing beneficial to you or anyone for that matter. you will find out more on the hubster. yes; alot of bickering with the Mason guy, but mostly some good points and info. Best of Luck... a.n.o.n
The EB Times did seem to pick things up a little for a brief period after my comments and those of others appeared on this blog back in September: http://thehubsterblog.blogspot.com /2007/09/wasting-times.html (Check it out if you haven't seen it already.)
I don't care what kind of restaurant (if it is a restaurant) goes in there as long as it's good. I will miss the coffee the most though. Cafe Italia had the best Cappuccino in the city. But if I had a choice, it would a good Thai place. I think the general Eastie, Revere, Winthrop area is sorely lacking a good Thai place.
As to a gourmet shop--I really don't think that type of place would thrive in Eastie--especially not now given that the economy seems to be tanking. When I was a kid most of those store fronts were either Italian restaurants or Italian markets. There were too many and one would go out of business and another would replace it and go out of business too. East Boston is an immigrant neighborhood and it always has been. Personally, I think that's one of the things that gives East Boston so much life and makes it a real neighborhood. Check out the Chowhounds web site. Eastie is a destination place for foodies because of all of the great authentic food you can find.
I do agree that a Trader Joe's would be fantastic. People who've never been there seem to have a false impression that it is expensive like Whole Foods, but I generally spend less there than at Stop and Shop or Shaws. It would be nice not to have to schlep all the way to Cambridge.
By the way, Rino's and Jeveli's are not the only Italian places left, there is also Carmen's Kitchen in Orient Heights.
to JIMBO THIS IS THE REAL JOSEPH J,MASON THE CURRENT PRESIDENT OF THE EAST BOSTON LAND USE COUNCIL
1- THE LOSER POSTER WHO SAID I HAVE STEPPED DOWN FOR THE LAND USE COUNCIL AS PRESIDENT IS A POSER,AND A LIAR.
2-THERE WAS NO LAND USE COUNCIL MEETING THIS PAST THURSDAY NIGHT ,IT IS OUR EVERY OTHER WEEK OFF.
3- I DONOT HAVE ANY MEDICAL DEVICES ATTACHED TO MY BODY.
I HAVE CANCER ,I HAVE CANCER.
JIMBO TO ALLOW SUCH A DEFAMATORY ,AND FALSE POST TO BE PUT UP IS BEYOND COMPREHENSION.
I AM NOT GOING ANYWHERE,AND NOE SINCE THE JIMBO HUSTER WANTS TO ALLOW THESE FAKE POSTS ,I HAVE NO CHOICE BUT TO DELAY OUR CHARITABLE PROGRAM DUE TOI THE SLANDER,AND DEFAMATION ALLOWED BY JIMBO,THE OWNER OF THIS BLOG.
NOW TO THE LOSER WHO POSTED ,YOU ARE THE MOST PATHETIC PERSON WALKING THE PLANET.
I AM THE REAL MR. MASON,AND I INTEND ON REMAIINING AS THE PRESIDENT AS LONG AS I AM ABLE.
***TO ALL THE BLOGGERS ON THIS BLOG THIS IS A CRYSTAL CLEAR SHOWING OF HOW BAD THIS HAS BECOME.
THANKS TO THIS IMPOSTER I CANNOT RUN A PROGRAM GIVING OUT CHARITABLE DONATIONS.
JIMBO,YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF YOURSELF. I HAVE EMAILED YOU FOR ALMOST 3 WEEKS SAYING I AM NOT POSTING ANYMORE BECAUSE OF THIS,AND PEOPLE SIGNING POSTS UNDER MY NAME.
THE CURRENT PRESIDENT OF THE EAST BOSTON LAND USE COUNCIL. MR. JOSEPH J.MASON 2 NEPTUNE ROAD SUITE 352 EAST BOSTON,MA.02128 E-MAIL JMASON023@AOL.COM
After reading that insane email that is going around and after seeing that he is claiming that people are publishing under his name, and after he accuses you of being responsible for people's comments and observations, and after seeing that you have no problem editing our posts that dare to even mention his name, and after seeing that he has threatened to hold his little slush fund hostage (who cares) because of what gets posted on a public blog - and tells us so on this blog...Is it not just easier to not post anything that even appears to be from him or mentions him - even if they say its really him or not (because that's convincing)? Just my observation, but it seems to me that he just does not demonstrate that emotional stability needed to be allowed to participate in our discussions - besides, I think he is starting to make people a little nervous. I am requesting that if you do not want to post this, then please delete his last off topic and off the wall posting.
Joe - there is a very easy solution to your concern that people are posting under your name as opposed to attacking Jimbo or this Blog - and I am glad to help you out - Set up a Google/Blogger account. Your name will appear (like mine) and Jimbo will be able to ensure that it is you posting by seeing that the email address attached to it is actually you. That should solve the problem of people pretending to be you! In the meantime, please keep your posts respectful and not so personal...hope you are feeling better!
We all know by now that Joe Mason likes to give his opinion. Whether we agree with him or not is another question, but for the most part his heart is huge and he does care about the community he lives in. So what?
Is not to critisize others but to discuss and debate topics...so leave him out of it and don't repond to him. Clearly there are more important issues than that. Or perhaps people just have so much time to waste that they want to devote it to paying attention to him and what he says. And do we really care what Jimbo chooses to post or not to post. It is his site, if you disagree with him or his ways, start your own or just continue to write your own thoughts in the East Boston Times.
If you all really have something to say, try actions instead. For example, get a bulldozer, fill it with gas and knock down all the disgusting buildings in East Boston. Or just pray that the Lombardos do it. Either way is a win win.
Furthermore, for once, all you complainers just try to stict to the topic. The topic of this article is "Say it ain't so!" Remember...
So, it is so, Caffe Italia is sold and new owners are moving in. We'll see what happens.
And for those of you that have 700 different ideas of what it should have been, I challange you to open your own place and add to the neighborhood.
Tony, the owner of Cafe Italia, over the weekend is whisteling a different tune after messages appeared on this blog and in the Eastie Times. Perhaps he doesn't want to risk jeopardizing his deal but he said everyone has it wrong and while he's opened up two other eateries he's staying in Eastie. In further news, D'Parma Restuarant in Winthrop is opening a second location here in Eastie on the corner of Sumner and Paris Streets.
This is the saddest news that Cafe Italia is closing the doors! It has a great atmosophere, the food is delicious, the staff is hysterical and where there are other places to go-well this is mine and plenty of other peoples favorite spot! Kinda feel like ya breaking up with someone...:(
An employee of Caffe Italia has confirmed the sale, though this person said it was to a Salvadoran rather than a Colombian, as I had originally heard. I'm not sure, however, when it'll happen.
It is supposed to be Salvadoran, not Colombian, and the owner runs respectable restaurants from what I have seen.
Tony appears to have sold because Cafe Italia wasn't as profitable as it should be given the size and quality of food. It is one of the best restaurants in East Boston but there appears to not be enough of a market for high quality Italian food anymore here (see Zafferanos as a good example).
Joe, you should definitely get a Google or Blogger account because that way you can protect your name when you post here.
I don't want to see an excess of chains in Eastie. Locally-owned businesses are the best way to promote economic development that is considers the needs and wants of the community. Some chains are okay, but too many will hurt the charm and local character of a neighborhood.
About Cafe Italia: If this sale does happen, I would really like to see something like a Salvadoran version of "Angela's" type place: moderate prices; pleasant but not too fancy atmosphere; and excellent food cooked by a professional chef. Something that is high quality without being too upscale and/or snobby and something that caters to people from all ethic groups as Angela's does. I think that the new owner should do what will maximize his profit while considering how the restaurant can contribute to making this community a better place.
In most circumstances, it wouldn't really matter whether there was or wasn't another Latino restaurant. However, the Cafe Italia location is an anchor in the Central Sq business district and it has an importance to health of the community such that it could be argued that some extra obligation extends to the new owner. In no way do I think he should have to risk a profitable enterprise for the sole benefit of the community, but if there is a way to make a real special restaurant like Cafe Italia, then I hope he does it.
Let me say that Caffe Italia's owners never and I mean never gave anything to any charitable donation here in Eastie. I for one am so happy that they are gone
Actually, when I was doing fundraising for Savio Prep High School, Tony generously donated gift certificates from his restaurant in Orient Heights to help the school's auction.
Caffee Italia donated a generous gift certicate for dinner to the last East Boston Open Studios Raffle to benefit the Meredian House Activities Program. This is too sad.
I was looking through the yellow pages the other day , I looked under category resturaunts, and there I discovered a new resturaunt / cafe called -Cadillac cafe and Italian resturaunt located at 170 Marion st East Boston the old cafe palermo- but drove by there today and there was a sign something like orion cafe or something
Hello All you Cafe Italia Lovers. The Land Use Council will be holding an open to the public "MEET,AND GREET"meeting on Thursday May 1st,2008 at 7 p.m.,to Introduce the new owners of Cafe Italia. The meeting will be at the East Boston Social Center 68 Central Square.
Tony will also be there to say Thanks to the community for the many years of support.
This is as said a MEET,AND GREET ! You are welcome to attend,ask questions,make a comment ,or just say hello.
Also El Buen located at 295 Bennington is selling its liquor license ,and thier new owners will also be in attendance.
There are some basic rules of our romm. 1-No Slanderous,Defamatory,or Racial type remarks will be allowed. 2-Anyone who disrupts the meeting in this fashion will be escorted out of the meeting. 3-Our room revolves around the word respect.
I commend both NEW owners for asking to Meet the community.
Now for the rules of an actual transfer! the new owners must pass, 1- a C O R I Check 2-A financial background check 3-Must be an American Citizen
Once that happens ,and the Liquor license is not moving,the City of Boston simply does an instanrt transfer.
For more information see community calender at www.eastboston.com
47 comments:
If it is true, then so sad to see him go! They had the best broccoli rabe and pretty good drinks! I figured something was up when the lounge was no longer in operation. Hopefully we will have a similar, responsible operator taking over the reins, with good food and atmosphere. He sold the one up the heights which now offers a fusion of sorts (Colombian-Italian) - the calamari was really good. I wonder if its the same owner.
If it is true, this is the point where the community process can be meaningful when it comes to store fronts and signage - which Tony did a pretty good job with in Central Square. We missed the boat last time when Tony sold Cafe Italia II as well as when Italian Express left the Heights. Its too late once the transfer has occurred.
It should be a condition of support that any transfer of licenses or permits to any new operator must include restrictions and perhaps a written agreement (with Main Streets or the Chamber, whoever) by the new operators that they will honor a signage layout and style that follows current zoning, corrects non-conforming signage, and is adaptive to Main Street type requirements.
Clark Moulaison, Joe Ruggiero, Sal LaMattina, and John Forbes get on the same page here - this is where your leverage needs to be excersiced to clean up our signage mess! If the proposed new owner is resistant and refuses to be a responsible owner, then clearly it would be appropriate to withold support and perhaps oppose any proposed transfer.
GREAT...
Just what we need. Another mediocre Columbian eatery. The conversion of Cafe Italia II was a travesty, now we learn the original is going away. I don't understand why a Burger King gets shut down but any Latin themed restaurant that wants to open gets free reign to do what they want (Tequilla's anyone?).
People out there that wonder what happened to the old East Boston, it was SOLD!
I have no problem with a Colombian restaurant, or Mexican or Peruvian or Salvadoran. I go to those places all the time, and I like the food.
However, Caffe Italia has an excellent espresso and dessert bar, and we have no other places like that in Eastie. That is sad.
Someone should step up to the plate and open a cafe s1m1lar to cafe 1tal1a- 1ts sad to see 1t go- obv1ously most of the longt1me 1tal1an fam1l1es are leav1ng or have already left East Boston-
What a disappointment. Cafe Italia I and Cafe Italia II have been favorite restaurants for my family. Both locations provided a pleasant environment, excellent food and wonderful waitstaff who knew how best to serve their clientele. Tony and Donna did an outstanding job of decorating the interior and exterior of each location and that attention to detail is lacking in many East Boston eateries.
Both venues were also true family restaurants. My children joined their parents often at the Cafe Italias and learned to appreciate a fine dining establishment, while never leaving their hometown.
A void will be created in East Boston by the absence of these two restaurants. I, for one, will no longer feel disloyal to East Boston by taking my discretionary funds for dining out to establishments outside of East Boston that mirror the quality that I had come to expect and to enjoy each time I visited Cafe Italia.
By the way, Vinnie, we'll will miss your special Espresso Martinis, Cosmos and capuccinos. Good luck to your family with your future endeavors.
Wow! I am just sick and saddened. Cafe Italia is truly the anchor of Central Square for a lot of East Boston lifers. I'm with Jimbo when he infers that it doesn't have to be an Italian eatery to be quality. Hopefully whoever takes over the space will be inspired by the existing decor, and most likely the expense of acquiring it, to maintain it in a similar manner.
Just another of many sad chapters in "The Old Est Boston".
However;
This should not be judged by what type of nationality the buyers are.
Directly across the street is a new restaurant opening this week called Roticeria Cancun,and they are one of the most responsible owners around.Great food,and menus in both Spanish,and English.
Now to the comments about the transfer;
Fact!
If the buyer passes the same Credit / Background check ,and its not being moved ! The Licensing Board considers it a simple transfer ,and does not require any kind of community process.
I also beleive the anons post about the Burger King issue.
He is reapplying,and I think has a very good shot this time around.
He has found old pictures of the building,and wants to renovate it back to its Historical look ,including the nice steeple that was on the top.
I wish the Cafe Italia owners the best of Luck,and the same for the new owners.
So as far as anyone thinking they can stop it because they may not like where the new owners come from,its simply not going to happen.
Chow Bella !
It is sad but at least we will get people with better attitudes as owners. Although it was a nice place the owners were rude, they made you feel like you were bothering them. Good luck to the new owners and I hope they will be good to the community.
I thought the following might be of value in our discussions of local or political topics. Some of the overtly hostile posts stopped me from publishing my blog after only a few posts.
http://www.colorado.edu/conflict/civility.htm
All of these topics should receive public scrutiny and merit rigorous debate. However, without well reasoned arguments it would be difficult for the BRA, City Hall, or any of the interested parties to take our neighborhood seriously.
Everyone is dancing around what type of restuarant--whether it be Italian, Colombian, etc.--but if it is going to be Colombian someone should come right out and say we don't need it.
I agree with Jimbo, Angela's Cafe, Taco Mex, etc. are all great and I too frequent those estamblishments but how many Latino eateries does one small neighborhood need.
What we need is variety. Go to Central Sq. in Cambridge--there Italian, French Wine Bar Bistros, Latino, Indian, Thai and numerous other types of eateries make up the fabric of that community and everyone in the neighborhood frequents them.
If it becomes a Colombian place I predict none of Cafe Italia's old clientele will go there, it will become shut off to the community at large and serve only a small cross section of the neighborhood and fail to become a 'hot spot'.
That's the problem with licensing and community development in Boston--there's no oversight and no planning. This would never happen in other Boston enclave's like Beacon Hill or the South End because people there are allowed to control thier future. It's not a race thing, its an economic thing. Wouldn't it be better to have a bunch of different kind of restaurants that all do well than a whole bunch of similiar restuarants that do poorly?
Eastie should be changing it up and telling potential owners--'look we have 25 places to get a burrito maybe try a tapas wine bar type cafe instead and then we'll support you'.
Burger King was the first salvo fired in this battle to have variety and not the same old but we need to keep it up.
We have a Brazilian place that's excellent. We have a Mexican restuarant that is also very good. We have Asian, Italian, Yuppie, wouldn't it be nice to have French, Thai, Indian or some other fare that will excite the entire community and not another Latino place that most people will never try.
Maybe it's apples and oranges, but no one complains that the North End has too many Italian restaurants.
I agree that I'd love to see a mix of places to eat in East Boston, but the area from Maverick to Central Square to Day Square is a predominantly Latino neighborhood, so we'll continue to see eateries that cater to that clientèle.
People who open businesses need to have a steady customer base to survive, and if a wine bar or an Indian restaurant could make a profit here someone would likely be trying it.
I am saddened by the close of Cafe Italia. Not that is's to place blame or anything but it appears at times that these establishments in Eastie are not supported by their own in large numbers. Zafferano, I agree was pricey but the food was incredible, probably the most authentic in the State. A meal at Zafferano was like having a meal in Naples, Italy.
As for another Latino type establishment I agree with some of the posts, I enjoy those restaurants as well and again the authenticity of columbian, peruvian, mexican etc can not be beat! But I don't think we need another one. I wish that more restauranteurs would invest in Eastie and open other varieties such as sushi, thai, steakhouses, and more, but how can they when they are side by side with businesses that are not up to par in design, price etc. The more low end the more of it we will get.
Furthermore, it seems that when high end restaurants want to open up the community immediately jumps down there throat.
I just hope that the new place opening at Sablone's will be supported by the community. I know we need a place like this and the owner believes in the community, if he/she relied on study analysis like most potentential business ownersdo we would probably not even get a place like this.
Finally, farewell to Cafe Italia we will miss you!
To Jimbo,
No one complains about the North End because its an entirley different audience. It's a tourist trap ans that's why there's 700 pizza and Italian restaurants and bakeries one after the other. No tourists are coming to Eastie so we need variety not a hundred Latino restaurants. Better yet why do we even need another eatery--we have enough. It seems everytime there's a commericial property or vancant building it's automatically turned inot either a restaurant or condos. How about a nice clothing store. How about a bookstore cafe. How about a place to buy a suit or even a dress shirt or tie. We have none of this in Eastie so lets not get into a contest about Italian vs. Colombian vs Asian and lets stand up and say we have enough places to get a bite to eat we need something else to stir the local economy.
Amen Anonymous @ 9:59 a.m. At what point are we not over saturated with places to eat. Is this not the only thing entrepreneurs can come up with? What is our Chamber of Commerce doing to drive some new economic ideas?
I did write that the North End and East Boston are apples and oranges, and I would certainly love to see a bookstore or cafe or even a bookstore cafe where Caffe Italia is, but it -- or a clothing store or most anything else -- would probably not survive. I don't want to see dozens of restaurants serving similar food, but if there is a market for it then people will take advantage of that.
To Jimbo,
There;s no market because nobody has ever tried. You say there's a market for Latino eateries from Maverick to Central Sq. and beyond because of the Latino poulation--look at how many of these places have opened and closed over the years (I beleive the most recent was the Purvian joint that took over Victors). No audeince, no need, no market there Jimbo--even in a heavily Latino poulated area. Take a walk arounf Eastie and peer into these establishments, Monte Christo, el Buen Gusto, Pollo whatever--they are all empty all the time.
How is this economic progression? It's not. Hell, even when Eastie was mostly white Italians a lot of Italian places failed except for a handful of truly good staples.
I say no more food and we should put a freeze on these types of licenes and licenses to run groceries in order to attract different kinds of business to Eastie. That's what the Chamber should be doing and lobbying for because a dozen or two good places to eat are enough for an Island that is two miles wide and six miles long we don't need 200 restaurants.
We need to take a chance on something else unless its an eatery that is truly unique like 303 Cafe.
Hey, I agree! I'm not advocating for more of one type of restaurant, but I don't think you can put a freeze on them and who gets to decide what is unique or what isn't?
It's too bad Caffe Italia is being sold as we speak. The building and signage was kept up nice...the new owners hopefully will not rip down the awnings and through up cheap signs and neon lights!!
Also, the "drinking crowd" was never out of control or loud, this better stay the same way or we will have another "Tequilla's."
I agree that this area needs variety!! With the new condos being built (The Seville), business owners and community memebers should be standing up and demanding variety!!
I know it would be disheartning to local businesses if a Border Cafe was put in The Seville...that would crush local businesses.
I fully support the idea of small, local businesses and everyone in the community should also. With that being said, a variety in businesses is key to sustain and increase growth in the central square area.
I do not want to or hope to see Caffe Italia turn into a full fledged bar...there current liquor license allows for many hours of bar time.
This situation does need to be monitored closely. I do not want drunks walking the streets all day (or night) after going there for one too many drinks!! That's what was good about Caffe Italia it had a blend of eating and drinking, but for some reason I can see the place being turned into a full bar with not much more to offer.
This really is sad for the neighborhood...it is too bad that someone else didn't step up to the plate and buy the building and business!! Maybe then, the variety would have come.
Caffe 1tal1a 1s now on Hun1ngton st
Boston- they've gone upscale-1f they rema1ned on mer1d1an st they would rema1n downscale- The Joeys and Tony's and Jo ann's of East Boston have bought passes for a fl1ght out to the north shore and never returned.Therefore Caffe 1tal1a was not depend1ng on new bus1ness from new arr1vals so they to bought a pass for a fl1ght out-
as for the new owners do not pant the outs1de of the bu1ld1ng yellow
East Boston needs PANERA -
TRADER JOES -PEETS COFFEE- A GOURMET SHOPPE- A Couple of Art Gallery Storefronts- P1zzer1a Reg1nas 1nstead of papa g1nos- hopefully the new apartment bu1ld1ng be1ng developed on mer1d1en st by the Lombardo clan w1ll probably have trader joes 1n the space below a perfect f1t
This is a bummer. I love this place. Regardless of what goes in there to replace it, it won't have the great espresso and lobster ravioli within walking distance of home. Sigh.
I agree that it is sad to see another Eastie business leave, but DO NOT agree with Anon at 5:59.
Eastie does not need a bunch of chains coming in droves. The people of East Boston need to support the small businesses that are here or they all will leave also!!!
That is the wrong attitude to have...you should be the first one lining up at the small businesses that are here instead of running to Trader Joe's, PEET's, etc.
Look at other neighborhoods...they thrive on the small businesses. Eastie needs variety, but the neighborhood should remain a catalyst for new, small businesses that will want to come and STAY here!!!
There are many people who go to East Boston specifically because they know they're going to get great Latin food--be it Mexican, Peruvian, Brazilian, or Colombian.
For those who say there's no variety of food in East Boston, I think "Latin" food is being lumped together a bit irresponsibly. It's very much akin to saying that Chinese, Japanese, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisine is the same because "it's all Asian" or that Italian, French, Spanish, and German cuisine is the same because "it's all European."
Mexican, Colombian, Brazilian, Peruvian, Salvadoran, Argentine and Ecuadoran cuisines are completely different from one another.
Opening a Colombian restaurant would not be adding "more of the same" to East Boston. It would be adding diversity to the list of restaurants East Boston offers the City of Boston.
Signed,
Someone from Back Bay who Enjoys Eating in Eastie
I just read the East Boston Times and the story on Caffe Italia and a few other stories in the paper.
Then, I read the Hubster and began to compare and wonder?!?
It appears to me that a certain reporter for the East Boston Times appears to be not so "anonymous" or is taking many many postings from the Hubster and using them in the paper.
Interesting...very interesting!
To 11:42 post
I understand that all these cuisines are different but look into the windows and at the menus it seems people from Colombia, El Salvador, etc. do not serve thier traditional native fare rather a Americanized verision of it that all seems the same.
Damn. That would suck. I love Cafe Italia....so then we only have Reno's left for good Italian...cause I am not loving Jevelis that much.
To the anon on 3/12 @ 12:04 The East Boston Times is a disservice to the community. Don't even bother reading it. there is nothing beneficial to you or anyone for that matter. you will find out more on the hubster. yes; alot of bickering with the Mason guy, but mostly some good points and info. Best of Luck... a.n.o.n
The EB Times did seem to pick things up a little for a brief period after my comments and those of others appeared on this blog back in September:
http://thehubsterblog.blogspot.com
/2007/09/wasting-times.html
(Check it out if you haven't seen it already.)
I don't care what kind of restaurant (if it is a restaurant) goes in there as long as it's good. I will miss the coffee the most though. Cafe Italia had the best Cappuccino in the city. But if I had a choice, it would a good Thai place. I think the general Eastie, Revere, Winthrop area is sorely lacking a good Thai place.
As to a gourmet shop--I really don't think that type of place would thrive in Eastie--especially not now given that the economy seems to be tanking. When I was a kid most of those store fronts were either Italian restaurants or Italian markets. There were too many and one would go out of business and another would replace it and go out of business too. East Boston is an immigrant neighborhood and it always has been. Personally, I think that's one of the things that gives East Boston so much life and makes it a real neighborhood. Check out the Chowhounds web site. Eastie is a destination place for foodies because of all of the great authentic food you can find.
I do agree that a Trader Joe's would be fantastic. People who've never been there seem to have a false impression that it is expensive like Whole Foods, but I generally spend less there than at Stop and Shop or Shaws. It would be nice not to have to schlep all the way to Cambridge.
By the way, Rino's and Jeveli's are not the only Italian places left, there is also Carmen's Kitchen in Orient Heights.
to JIMBO
THIS IS THE REAL JOSEPH J,MASON THE CURRENT PRESIDENT OF THE EAST BOSTON LAND USE COUNCIL
1- THE LOSER POSTER WHO SAID I HAVE STEPPED DOWN FOR THE LAND USE COUNCIL AS PRESIDENT IS A POSER,AND A LIAR.
2-THERE WAS NO LAND USE COUNCIL MEETING THIS PAST THURSDAY NIGHT ,IT IS OUR EVERY OTHER WEEK OFF.
3- I DONOT HAVE ANY MEDICAL DEVICES ATTACHED TO MY BODY.
I HAVE CANCER ,I HAVE CANCER.
JIMBO TO ALLOW SUCH A DEFAMATORY ,AND FALSE POST TO BE PUT UP IS BEYOND COMPREHENSION.
I AM NOT GOING ANYWHERE,AND NOE SINCE THE JIMBO HUSTER WANTS TO ALLOW THESE FAKE POSTS ,I HAVE NO CHOICE BUT TO DELAY OUR CHARITABLE PROGRAM DUE TOI THE SLANDER,AND DEFAMATION ALLOWED BY JIMBO,THE OWNER OF THIS BLOG.
NOW TO THE LOSER WHO POSTED ,YOU ARE THE MOST PATHETIC PERSON WALKING THE PLANET.
I AM THE REAL MR. MASON,AND I INTEND ON REMAIINING AS THE PRESIDENT AS LONG AS I AM ABLE.
***TO ALL THE BLOGGERS ON THIS BLOG THIS IS A CRYSTAL CLEAR SHOWING OF HOW BAD THIS HAS BECOME.
THANKS TO THIS IMPOSTER I CANNOT RUN A PROGRAM GIVING OUT CHARITABLE DONATIONS.
JIMBO,YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF YOURSELF. I HAVE EMAILED YOU FOR ALMOST 3 WEEKS SAYING I AM NOT POSTING ANYMORE BECAUSE OF THIS,AND PEOPLE SIGNING POSTS UNDER MY NAME.
THE CURRENT PRESIDENT OF THE EAST BOSTON LAND USE COUNCIL.
MR. JOSEPH J.MASON
2 NEPTUNE ROAD SUITE 352
EAST BOSTON,MA.02128 E-MAIL JMASON023@AOL.COM
WHAT A SAD BLOG !
Jimbo:
After reading that insane email that is going around and after seeing that he is claiming that people are publishing under his name, and after he accuses you of being responsible for people's comments and observations, and after seeing that you have no problem editing our posts that dare to even mention his name, and after seeing that he has threatened to hold his little slush fund hostage (who cares) because of what gets posted on a public blog - and tells us so on this blog...Is it not just easier to not post anything that even appears to be from him or mentions him - even if they say its really him or not (because that's convincing)? Just my observation, but it seems to me that he just does not demonstrate that emotional stability needed to be allowed to participate in our discussions - besides, I think he is starting to make people a little nervous. I am requesting that if you do not want to post this, then please delete his last off topic and off the wall posting.
Thank you.
Joe - there is a very easy solution to your concern that people are posting under your name as opposed to attacking Jimbo or this Blog - and I am glad to help you out - Set up a Google/Blogger account. Your name will appear (like mine) and Jimbo will be able to ensure that it is you posting by seeing that the email address attached to it is actually you. That should solve the problem of people pretending to be you! In the meantime, please keep your posts respectful and not so personal...hope you are feeling better!
We all know by now that Joe Mason likes to give his opinion. Whether we agree with him or not is another question, but for the most part his heart is huge and he does care about the community he lives in. So what?
Is not to critisize others but to discuss and debate topics...so leave him out of it and don't repond to him. Clearly there are more important issues than that. Or perhaps people just have so much time to waste that they want to devote it to paying attention to him and what he says. And do we really care what Jimbo chooses to post or not to post. It is his site, if you disagree with him or his ways, start your own or just continue to write your own thoughts in the East Boston Times.
If you all really have something to say, try actions instead. For example, get a bulldozer, fill it with gas and knock down all the disgusting buildings in East Boston. Or just pray that the Lombardos do it. Either way is a win win.
Furthermore, for once, all you complainers just try to stict to the topic. The topic of this article is "Say it ain't so!" Remember...
So, it is so, Caffe Italia is sold and new owners are moving in. We'll see what happens.
And for those of you that have 700 different ideas of what it should have been, I challange you to open your own place and add to the neighborhood.
Tony, the owner of Cafe Italia, over the weekend is whisteling a different tune after messages appeared on this blog and in the Eastie Times. Perhaps he doesn't want to risk jeopardizing his deal but he said everyone has it wrong and while he's opened up two other eateries he's staying in Eastie.
In further news, D'Parma Restuarant in Winthrop is opening a second location here in Eastie on the corner of Sumner and Paris Streets.
J.L.
This is the saddest news that Cafe Italia is closing the doors! It has a great atmosophere, the food is delicious, the staff is hysterical and where there are other places to go-well this is mine and plenty of other peoples favorite spot! Kinda feel like ya breaking up with someone...:(
An employee of Caffe Italia has confirmed the sale, though this person said it was to a Salvadoran rather than a Colombian, as I had originally heard. I'm not sure, however, when it'll happen.
Why did Tony sell?
A few comments on all these postings:
It is supposed to be Salvadoran, not Colombian, and the owner runs respectable restaurants from what I have seen.
Tony appears to have sold because Cafe Italia wasn't as profitable as it should be given the size and quality of food. It is one of the best restaurants in East Boston but there appears to not be enough of a market for high quality Italian food anymore here (see Zafferanos as a good example).
Joe, you should definitely get a Google or Blogger account because that way you can protect your name when you post here.
I don't want to see an excess of chains in Eastie. Locally-owned businesses are the best way to promote economic development that is considers the needs and wants of the community. Some chains are okay, but too many will hurt the charm and local character of a neighborhood.
About Cafe Italia: If this sale does happen, I would really like to see something like a Salvadoran version of "Angela's" type place: moderate prices; pleasant but not too fancy atmosphere; and excellent food cooked by a professional chef. Something that is high quality without being too upscale and/or snobby and something that caters to people from all ethic groups as Angela's does. I think that the new owner should do what will maximize his profit while considering how the restaurant can contribute to making this community a better place.
In most circumstances, it wouldn't really matter whether there was or wasn't another Latino restaurant. However, the Cafe Italia location is an anchor in the Central Sq business district and it has an importance to health of the community such that it could be argued that some extra obligation extends to the new owner. In no way do I think he should have to risk a profitable enterprise for the sole benefit of the community, but if there is a way to make a real special restaurant like Cafe Italia, then I hope he does it.
Let me say that Caffe Italia's owners never and I mean never gave anything to any charitable donation here in Eastie. I for one am so happy that they are gone
Actually, when I was doing fundraising for Savio Prep High School, Tony generously donated gift certificates from his restaurant in Orient Heights to help the school's auction.
Caffee Italia donated a generous gift certicate for dinner to the last East Boston Open Studios Raffle to benefit the Meredian House Activities Program. This is too sad.
Vinny has always been generous to us when we go there!!!
When are the doors officially closing-as is when can we get our last meal?
I've had nothing but bad meals thre so I'm happy that new owners are taking over
The Globe has a review today of Tony Oliviero's Cafe Italia (yes, unlike Eastie's eatery, one f) on Huntington Ave. at Brigham Circle.
http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/food/
articles/2008/03/26/forging_an_
identity_with_delightful_dishes/
I was looking through the yellow pages the other day , I looked under category resturaunts, and there I discovered a new resturaunt / cafe called -Cadillac cafe and Italian resturaunt located at 170 Marion st East Boston the old cafe palermo- but drove by there today and there was a sign something like orion cafe or something
Hello
All you Cafe Italia Lovers.
The Land Use Council will be holding an open to the public "MEET,AND GREET"meeting on Thursday May 1st,2008 at 7 p.m.,to Introduce the new owners of Cafe Italia.
The meeting will be at the East Boston Social Center 68 Central Square.
Tony will also be there to say Thanks to the community for the many years of support.
This is as said a MEET,AND GREET !
You are welcome to attend,ask questions,make a comment ,or just say hello.
Also El Buen located at 295 Bennington is selling its liquor license ,and thier new owners will also be in attendance.
There are some basic rules of our romm.
1-No Slanderous,Defamatory,or Racial type remarks will be allowed.
2-Anyone who disrupts the meeting in this fashion will be escorted out of the meeting.
3-Our room revolves around the word respect.
I commend both NEW owners for asking to Meet the community.
Now for the rules of an actual transfer!
the new owners must pass,
1- a C O R I Check
2-A financial background check
3-Must be an American Citizen
Once that happens ,and the Liquor license is not moving,the City of Boston simply does an instanrt transfer.
For more information see community calender at www.eastboston.com
Joe M.
Thank You!
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