After 34 Years Popular Albany Pizzeria Closes Its Doors For Good
When a popular Albany pizzeria announced that they were going meatless back in September, customers were worried it wouldn't last. Well, unfortunately, it is now permanently closed but not because they went vegan nor does it have to do with the pandemic.
Why Did This Popular Pizza Place Close?
Little Anthony's has been a popular Albany pizzeria for 34 years and in a post on their website Sunday, January 2nd, they announced that they are closing forever. The owner, Patrick Batuello, who is third-generation said that he had decided to sell the business in October and had the perfect buyer that would carry on the tradition of LA's Vegetarian/Vegan Pizzeria. But it was met with resistance from the owners of the building who said they no longer want a restaurant in that space. Here's what he said about the sale falling through:
Unfortunately, the owners of the building – who happen to be family members – refused to lease to this buyer (or any buyer, for that matter), claiming they no longer want a restaurant in that space. This, after months of assurances, that once I found a buyer, a lease would be a mere formality. Then, in a perverse twist, they said I could sell – but only to them. This “offer,” however, came with no guarantee of keeping the vegan food. Obviously, there was no way that was going to happen.
What Will Happen Next?
Patrick Batuello originally was going to sell Little Anthony's so that he could get out of the restaurant business and concentrate on his passion, animal advocacy. His organization is called Horseracing Wrongs. He says this is hopefully not the end of LA's Veg. He will retain the name in hopes they can find another location for the buyer to open.
Batuello Appreciates His Loyal Customers
He also said on his website:
I can only offer a heartfelt thank you for all your years of unwavering support. The restaurant business is difficult, but you, my loyal patrons, made it all worthwhile. Thank you. – Pat