Berkeley's Caffe Venezia to Close Later This Year

Caffe Venezia, the restaurant at 1799 University Ave., Berkeley, that has become an institution for local residents, will close later this year, according to a press release issued by the current owners today.

The iconic restaurant decorated with laundry lines and a fountain has been a popular spot for everything from business lunches to family celebrations for 33 years.

According to the press release, the restaurant is being sold and a new concept will take over the space at 1799 University Ave. The exact closing date is still to be determined, but is expected to be in the next few months.

Classic Venezia dishes — Puttanesca, Rustica, Pollo Affumicato, Carciofi, Carbonara and more — will continue to be featured on the menu, the release said.

According to the owners, special events to mark the restaurant's closure are being planned. They will include a ‘Farewell to Venezia’ Opera Night, featuring singers from Berkeley’s West Edge Opera.

Which of your favorite Caffe Venezia dishes should the new owners keep on the menu? Tell us in the comments section below.