Legendary New York restaurant closing its doors after 91 years in business
They’re saying arrivederci.
An iconic Italian-American eatery in upstate New York is closing its doors after 91 years in business.
Hollywood Restaurant, located in Auburn, first opened for business back in 1933 and has been run by members of the family ever since.
Current owner Joe Colella Jr. told The Post on Thursday that he felt it was finally time hang up his apron, despite the fact that business is still booming.
“I’m not getting any younger,” the 67-year-old declared, saying he took over the establishment from his parents back in 1983.
“We’re busy, we’re good, we could continue for another 40 years, but it’s time.”Â
Colella first announced the forthcoming closure in an emotional post on Facebook, devastating members of the local community.
“Our restaurant has been in business for over 90 years,” the restaurateur wrote. “We are at the end of a multi-generational journey.”
“There have been untold numbers of whole families and others who have been employed here,” he continued. “Friendships, marriages and thousands of family events have revolved around our dining room floors.”
“These things are a source of pride and happiness for us all. Also, it is a part of our sadness as well. We will miss all of it but are looking forward to the next chapters of our lives.”
Residents in Auburn, located near the Finger Lakes, flocked to the comments section beneath the post to express upset.
“This breaks my heart,” one wrote. “I’ve been going 33 years [with] my family. An amazing restaurant that filled those with food and love. So thankful to have been able to experience it as long as we have.”
“My favorite place for a birthday dinner for as long as I can remember!” a second chimed in. “What a huge loss for the community but so wonderful to have had you all these years!”
Another nostalgic local wistfully wrote: “A favorite childhood Christmas memory will always be the animated elves in the restaurant windows. It was so exciting to see them at Christmastime. Wish I could return to the simpler times. Thanks for serving Auburn for so many decades.”
Hollywood Restaurant was opened by Dan and Rose Cecora in the midst of the Great Depression.
The original liquor license dated from 1933 — the same year that Prohibition ended — still hangs on the wall at the restaurant.
The eatery was taken over by Cecora’s daughter, Bridget Colella, in 1966. Her son, Joe, has been running the restaurant over the past few decades.
The final night of business is Saturday, Jun. 29.
