Florence Ravioli In Scotch Plains To Close Due To COVID Struggles

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ — The well-known Florence Ravioli in downtown Scotch Plains is closing. It became the latest victim of the coronavirus pandemic. The eatery at 391 Park Ave. will close on Feb. 13.

"Our small businesses are the backbone of this country and good people like Florence Ravioli need financial assistance and their consumers back. We need to open responsibly, and give confidence back to the consumer that they can go out and shop again, especially with more folks becoming vaccinated each day," said Joe Sarno, a Scotch Plains resident and political figure.

Les Turchin had purchased the eatery at 391 Park Ave. for his Italian mother, Laurel DeFellipo Turchin, about two years ago.

"I am really a Realtor but I grew up making meatballs. I remember when I was 2 years old sitting on the counter making meatballs with my family," Laurel Turchin said. "So when I saw the place go up for sale I asked my son to buy it because I want to sell my meatballs."

When the pandemic hit Laurel did everything she could to adapt. She launched videos on the social media, created an outdoor dining space, and started offering family meals at a discounted price to help the community. Read More: Florence Ravioli Opens Outdoor Dining, 'Stays With The Times'

Unfortunately, the efforts were not enough for the pandemic.

Savory Selections Catering also shared a message of sadness over the closure.

"We are sad to hear the news that our friends at Florence Ravioli will be closing soon. For all of those inquiring Savory Selections Catering will remain open. Our days of operation will be posted weekly. We would like to thank Florence Ravioli for the opportunity to work with them and we wish them all of the best!" said Savory Selections Catering LLC.

The restaurant has a long-standing history that dates back to the early 1920s when Florence and her husband Raphael emigrated from Italy to Newark. Florence began making her now famous rectangular ravioli in 1941 for her sister Vincenza Agnellino’s restaurant, The Reservoir Restaurant, now located in South Orange, according to Florence Ravioli.

Eventually, the couple opened Florence Ravioli Company in May 1943 at 400 South 110th Street in Newark. After 25 years in Newark, the business was brought to Scotch Plains.

For more information visit florenceraviolinj.com or call 908-322-7222 or facebook.com/Florenceraviolico.

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