An era is coming to an end as Mom and Dad’s Italian Restaurant in Lady Lake announces its closure. After serving the community for sixty-two years, the restaurant will bid farewell on February 24, 2024. The closure marks the end of a cherished family legacy that began in 1962.

The announcement came on Facebook over the weekend, saying, “We wish to thank this wonderful community for supporting our family over 5 generations. We have decided to stop living at work and start working on living! We will miss you all and hope you join us for dinner before our final service, Feb 24.”

Established by John and Columba Mattiucci, both originally from Abruzzi, Italy, Mom and Dad’s Italian Restaurant quickly became a popular date-night destination in Lady Lake. The restaurant was known for its authentic Italian cuisine and warm, family-friendly atmosphere. Over time, it was passed on to their family members. In 2005, their granddaughter, Elainna Tucker, and her husband, Ricky, took lead.

“My grandparents immigrated here after World War II and opened a string of restaurants in Central Florida,” Elainna said in a news article. “This one is the only restaurant to stay with immediate family. I grew up here with my dad running things, and we took over in 2005 because I wanted to keep it in the family.”

Elainna and Ricky, high school sweethearts who met at Leesburg High School, dedicated themselves to the family business. A significant portion of the restaurant’s menu features original family recipes passed down through generations.

Every morning, the smell of fresh-baked Italian bread filled the restaurant as they began the day with homemade items like pasta noodles, sauces, and desserts, maintaining commitment to authenticity.

Over the years, Mom and Dad’s Italian Restaurant became a cherished gathering place for families, couples, and friends celebrating special occasions. The warm, welcoming atmosphere and authentic, homemade dishes earned it a devoted following.

As the restaurant prepares to close its doors, customers have been reminiscing about their favorite times, including many birthdays, first-dates and wedding proposals. This is truly a restaurant that will be missed.

For those wishing to savor one last taste of nostalgia and deliciousness, the restaurant will remain open until February 24. Mom and Dad’s Italian Restaurant invites everyone to come and bid farewell. They are located at 304 S US Highway 441 in Lady Lake and open for dinner only starting at 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday.