The Closure of Domenico’s Restaurant: A Slice of Levittown’s History Ends
Domenico’s Restaurant, an iconic eatery in Levittown , is set to close its doors after an impressive 58 years of service. Located at 3270-A Hempstead Tpke., the restaurant has been a cornerstone of the community since its establishment in 1967 .
Jim Dalto, the managing member of Westbury Properties , which owns the facility, expressed uncertainty about the future of the space formerly occupied by the restaurant. In a recent telephone interview, he mentioned, “We may decide to split the place up and maybe rent the back for a different use.” The final operating day for Domenico’s is announced to be on June 29 , as confirmed through the restaurant’s social media accounts.
Community Reactions and Memories
The impending closure has sparked an outpouring of sentiment from the community on social media. Many lifelong diners took to platforms to share their experiences, reflecting how the restaurant was woven into the fabric of their lives. Erin Lyons recalled her first date with her husband at the restaurant over 20 years ago , affirming, “We’ll definitely go back before they close.” Meanwhile, Bruce Geller shared that he had been a patron for nearly 30 years , while Melissa Elsner Fulgieri echoed similar sentiments, noting that she had been visiting since she was a child.
The Legacy of Domenico Belcastro
At the heart of this cherished establishment is its owner, Domenico Belcastro , who drew inspiration from his grandmother’s recipes in Calabria, Italy . While Belcastro did not immediately respond to inquiries about the closure, his legacy lives on through the restaurant’s menu. Popular dishes include gnocchi Bolognese for $23.95 and chicken scaloppine francaise for $26.95.
Ads for Domenico’s that appeared in Newsday in 1979 and 1988. Credit: Newsday
The Restaurant’s Growth and Resilience
Over the decades, Domenico’s has evolved significantly, transitioning from a pizzeria with a modest dining area to a cherished establishment capable of hosting large events. After recovering from a fire in 2023 , it expanded to include a catering area with four rooms, accommodating gatherings of up to 150 people .
Despite the challenges faced, Domenico’s has maintained its reputation as a beloved family restaurant in Levittown, thanks to its commitment to quality food and excellent service.
Future of the Space
With the impending closure of Domenico’s, questions loom regarding the future use of the space. Jim Dalto indicated that they might consider alternative uses for the location, which remains a critical retail space in the community. As discussions continue, local residents are left pondering what the next chapter might hold for this iconic site.
Hopes for the Future
The social media farewell post from Domenico’s reflects the restaurant’s hope that this may not be the end of their story. “We want to thank you all for the last 58 years of unforgettable memories,” it stated. The shared sentiment among the community, including patrons’ promises to return one last time, paints a picture of a place that has not only served meals but has also created a sense of belonging .
As the Levittown community braces for the closure of this historical establishment, it is evident that Domenico’s Restaurant will be missed by many who have made cherished memories within its walls. The transition marks the end of an era, but also serves as a reminder of the impact local businesses have on the lives of community members.
For further inquiries or to reminisce, customers can visit Domenico’s at 3270-A Hempstead Tpke., Levittown , or call 516-735-5535 .