After 121 years, Brooklyn’s legendary Ferdinando’s Focacceria closes—But could it reopen?
Ferdinando’s Focacceria, the beloved Sicilian restaurant in Brooklyn, has unexpectedly closed the weekend of February 23, after 121 years in business.
After more than a century of serving authentic Sicilian cuisine, Ferdinando's Focacceria located in Brooklyn, New York, has closed its doors. First established in 1904, this Carroll Gardens landmark was renowned for its traditional dishes like rice balls and panelle sandwiches. On Sunday, the eatery announced on an Instagram post that the family had decided to “permanently cease the operation of Ferdinando’s.”
Similar to many family-owned businesses, the restaurant suffered the economic impact of the pandemic back in 2020. In addition, the owner of the restaurant, Frank Buffa, 75, mentioned age and health concerns as reasons for the closure, expressing hope that the place might reopen under new management.
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Ferdinando’s Focacceria closes after 121 years in Brooklyn
One of the oldest Italian restaurants in the city, and the oldest Sicilian restaurant in New York, the Carroll Gardens restaurant specialized in Palermo favorites. Two highlights of the menu were the beloved panelle sandwich, which consisted of a fried ravioli stuffed with chickpeas, and its signature rice ball, a delicacy like no other. The restaurant's ambiance and menu offered patrons a genuine taste of Sicily, making it an ideal destination for both locals and visitors since it first opened in 1904.
Ferdinando's Focacceria's closing is shocking to many New Yorkers, as it was a community cornerstone. Over the years, it attracted celebrities like Martin Scorsese and Leonardo DiCaprio, as well as multiple New York City mayors. In their post, the owners apologized for not allowing customers the opportunity to enjoy one last meal at the restaurant, as they also thanked families and patrons who supported the restaurant over the years.
Could Ferdinando's Focacceria reopen?
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted Ferdinando's, with shifts in dining habits leading to reduced patronage. Despite owner Buffa's dedication—having not taken a sick day in over five decades—the physical demands became overwhelming. Without a direct family successor, he is considering options to ensure the restaurant's legacy endures, including potential new ownership that would honor its rich history.
The owner has received inquiries from potential buyers, including notable chefs, who are interested in preserving the establishment's legacy. However, he is not sure of when he will decide about it, as he stated: “I’m the type of guy … who’s gotta be [here] all the time,” said Buffa, who also owns the building. “I don’t really want to give it to nobody else [because] this is my life.” The community remains optimistic that this iconic eatery will once again serve its beloved Sicilian dishes.