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One of the city’s oldest Italian restaurants is now closed. After 121 years, Ferdinando’s Focacceria quietly shuttered its doors over the weekend. The institution announced its closure on Instagram:
“To our dear and valued patrons: Due to unforeseen circumstances, our family has made the decision to permanently cease the operation of Ferdinando’s. It was a decision that was both difficult and painful. But nonetheless necessary. Rendering a 121 year institution such as ours a fond memory cannot come without a mix of emotions. Fading into The Red Hook sunset quietly, without fanfare, was felt to be a proper and discreet finish. We apologize for not providing an opportunity to savor a last meal with us and to say goodbye.”
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So, why is Ferdinando’s Focacceria closing down?
Second generation owner Francesco “Frank” Buffa told the New York Post that his health ultimately led to his retirement. The very hands-on owner was known to be a constant fixture of the restaurant, cooking up deep-fried, chickpea flour fritters, known as panelle, rice balls and potato croquettes.
“I can’t stand for 12 hours a day like I used to,” the 75-year-old told the publication, citing health issues regarding his back. While Buffa has children, he didn't envision them taking on the family business and he didn't have anyone else to pass the restaurant to. “I’m the type of guy…who’s gotta be [here] all the time...I don’t really want to give it to nobody else [because] this is my life,” he told the New York Post.
Buffa, who owns the space, is looking forward to traveling to taking time off and traveling to Sicily. He is giving himself time before renting out to a potential new tenant, one of whom, he hopes, will give it the respect it deserves.
“If I give it to you, you have to make sure who knows how to take care of this place and continue the tradition,” Buffa told the New York Post.