Campo Di Bocce Permanently Closes In Livermore

LIVERMORE, CA — Coronavirus fallout has claimed yet another area restaurant as operators of Campo di Bocce today announced the permanent shutdown of the Livermore location — a popular spot that melded Italian cuisine and the game of bocce ball.

"The continual shutdowns, lockdowns, changing of the rules, takeout food only, outdoor dining only, minimal indoor dining, then once again takeout only, finally took its toll, and the grips of the Covid-19 pandemic finally took hold and have forced us into this dire situation," management said via Facebook.

The establishment opened 15 years ago on East Vineyard Avenue with eight indoor and outdoor, world-class bocce courts and quickly became a lively destination for dining, drinks, birthday and retirement parties, corporate get-togethers, community gatherings and, of course, bocce tournaments. Over the years, the locale played host to four national bocce championships, international events, in-house leagues and regional tournaments, operators said.

"Without the community support and love, Campo di Bocce of Livermore would never have been able to turn into what it actually became," the owners said.

Along with bidding farewell to loyal customers, managers also extended gratitude to their employees.

"We want to thank our loyal, devoted and dedicated staff members for all of the support and hard work helping Campo di Bocce of Livermore become a pillar in the Livermore community," they added. "So many staff members met for the first time at Campo di Bocce of Livermore, and have actually gone on to get married and start families. Your continued hard work and support will never be forgotten.

"Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for all you did to help make Campo di Bocce of Livermore a household name."

Another Campo di Bocce location, on University Avenue in Los Gatos, announced in December a temporary closure "until the outlook for COVID-19 improves," while a Fremont locale on Technology Place also recently closed for good due to coronavirus, according to the business.

The Campo di Bocces join a growing list of restaurants permanently shuttered over the past year, with owners citing the pandemic.

Coronavirus mandates proved particularly brutal for the industry throughout the region and statewide as eateries struggled to stay afloat with takeout orders or on-again-off-again, outdoor dining.

Among eateries gone for good in 2020 were Pleasanton-based Specialty's Cafe & Bakery, Chef Rodney Worth's Worth Ranch BBQ in San Ramon and The Little Pear in Danville, Hobee's Cupertino, all locations of Sweet Tomatoes and even the legendary, 157-year-old Cliff House in San Francisco.

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