SALISBURY, Md.- After decades of being in business, Vinny's La Roma restaurant in Salisbury is closing its doors for good at the end of the year.
Vinny' owner, Vinny Bellia, is retiring after 37 years of serving Italian food at its location 934 S. Salisbury Blvd.
"I've been thinking about it for a while, when the day would come, when I get a certain age," Bellia said. "I just spoke with a realtor and I said to him, I was really upset about the construction on the street here and business was slow and I said maybe its time to pack it in."
Bellia also said he wants to spend more time with his family and grandchildren.
Longtime customer Marlene Rinnier said while she's happy Bellia will get to enjoy retirement, she has mixed feelings about the restaurant closing.
"It's hard to think of next, because its more than just a restaurant, it's where friends gather, where the local community gathers and so that's what makes it so special. Customer John Middleton, who says he gets the best pizza from Vinny's, said the restaurant would sorely be missed when it closes.
Bellia said a new restaurant will move into the location, but there is no word yet on what that new restaurant will be.
Dec. 31 will be the last business day for Vinny's. Bellia said he will hold a grand closing event for all his loyal customers before saying goodbye.
