Osteria I Nonni, the upscale Italian restaurant in Lilydale, has announced that it will close on Oct. 18. Its next-door sister business, Buon Giorno Deli, will close Oct. 25 but is hoping to find a new location.

Both businesses opened in 2002. It was a new location for Buon Giorno Deli, which had formerly been in downtown St. Paul.

Over the years, many locals have enjoyed a meal of fresh pastas, roasted meat or even just a stellar glass of wine inside the opulent restaurant or on Osteria I Nonni’s patio, which overlooks a pretty pond.

When it opened, Pioneer Press restaurant critic Kathie Jenkins awarded Osteria I Nonni three out of four stars, declaring: “If you care about food, you should support I Nonni.”

Buon Giorno deli has been a staple for locals looking for sandwiches, pizzas, house-made frozen meals and Italian groceries.

The owners did not respond to requests for an interview, but the following was posted on the Osteria I Nonni social media pages:

“It is with a heavy heart that we are announcing the closing of Osteria I Nonni. It has been an absolute pleasure to host you for everything from simple happy hours on our patio, to our wine events and dinners, and all of your special occasions that you graciously allowed us to be a part of.

“As of today Tuesday, September 30th, we are no longer open for lunch. Our final day of service will be Saturday, October 18. Please feel free to make reservations for the next two and a half weeks, and come visit us one final time!

“Thank you to everyone who has made I Nonni such a special place over the years, from our amazing staff, to our wonderful patrons; we appreciate you all! If you would like to share your most favorite memory with us in our comments or dm’s, we would love to hear them!!”

Osteria I Nonni: 981 Sibley Memorial Highway; 651-905-1081; osteriainonni.com

Buon Giorno Deli: 981 Sibley Memorial Highway; 651-905-1080; buongiornodeli.com

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