Beloved Jerusalem Italian Restaurant Piccolino to Close After 35 Years
Translated & summarized from Israel Hayom by baba
Jerusalem's Italian restaurant Piccolino is closing permanently at the end of October after 35 years of operation. The founding families announced the decision on social media, citing a desire for rest after decades of work. The restaurant was known for its authentic Italian cuisine and warm, family atmosphere, becoming a significant part of the community. Despite facing numerous challenges over the years, the owners expressed gratitude to staff and customers, inviting them for a final visit.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- Jerusalem's beloved Italian restaurant Piccolino will close its doors permanently at the end of October.
- The restaurant has been a fixture in the city for 35 years, operated by the Bibi, Yazdi, and Dahan families.
- The owners stated the closure is due to a desire for rest, not a lack of passion for the business.
- Piccolino was known for its authentic Italian cuisine and its role as a community gathering place.
- The family also highlighted their extensive community service and charitable work throughout the years.
- Customers are invited to visit one last time before the end of the month to share memories.
Piccolino, a cherished Italian restaurant in Jerusalem, will close its doors at the end of October after 35 years of operation. The Bibi, Yazdi, and Dahan families, who own the establishment, announced the closure on social media, sharing memories and the reasons behind their decision. The restaurant was founded 35 years ago by Nava, with her husband Yoske often greeting guests at the entrance. The family emphasized that Piccolino was more than just a place to eat; it was a home where they learned the art of hospitality, focusing on genuine connection with patrons.
The kosher restaurant, known for its authentic Italian cuisine, offered a wide range of dishes including homemade pastas, stone-baked pizzas, focaccia, salads, and main courses like ravioli, mushroom pappardelle, and pizzas with truffle and smoked salmon. It also served fish dishes and desserts, blending Italian flavors with a warm, family-oriented atmosphere.
Over the decades, Piccolino became a significant part of the families' lives and their customers' stories. Family members started working there as singles, got married, raised children who played among the tables, and eventually, grandchildren joined the business. The restaurant also witnessed many customer milestones, from first dates and proposals to weddings and family celebrations.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including terrorist attacks, wars, the COVID-19 pandemic, and periods of low tourism, Piccolino persevered. The family also highlighted their commitment to community service, assisting youth, employing individuals with disabilities, donating food, and supporting lone soldiers. This philanthropic work was an integral part of their business philosophy.
The owners stressed that the closure is not due to a lack of passion for the business but rather a desire for rest and family time. They expressed gratitude to their staff and loyal customers, inviting them to visit one last time before the end of October to share memories and bid farewell to the establishment founded by Nava and Yoske.
