Got a tip from a long-time correspondent (thanks, Doug) that 20+-year South Side stalwart Gino’s had served its last meal this past Tuesday. Swung by 4502 Hampton today, and there’s a big “for lease” sign in the window. The adjacent Bar Roma, however — also owned by the Vitale family — is still open.
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Loading ...I spoke to Gino’s son, Vince, and was told that Gino decided to retire. The attached Bar Roma will remain open and serve food. Gino will still be around for those who wish to say hello. I did not ask the motivation or whether this had anything to do with the recent denial of a 3AM liquor license for Bar Roma or the 3-0 drubbing Italy took against the Dutch at Euro2008.
On a side note, you’d think a P-D writer could simply Google the phone number of the establishment and call them for the complete story. It took me a few minutes while on the West Coast.
When is the Santorini restaurant opening? There’s a sign up - it’s was going to go in right next to Gino’s, left side of the building.
After three phone calls (Monday) where the phone wasn’t answered, I actually drove down to the restaurant to ensure that it was closed. I’m sorry if that wasn’t sufficient effort before publishing the story.
I just heard that Gino’s had closed, and then saw this article, although I too used to go there about 3 times a week until they got so fancy that you couldn’t go there anymore. Just to clarify things, as one of the original “groupies” of Gino’s when they first opened and you could bring in your own vino and have a wonderful dinner for about $15, tip included (okay it was a very long time ago!), I really have to set something straight…The person that everyone thinks is Gino is not…the real Gino had to go back to Sicily about 18 years ago. The impersonator could probably give you more details, as he is family, but I just have to set the record straight. The real Gino did the food for my wedding and we have visited him and his family in Sicily, so I do know what I am talking about. You know the old saying “what goes around comes around” certainly is true!
Joe Bonwich has been the restaurant critic for the Post-Dispatch since 2002 and has covered the local food scene for various publications for more than 25 years. He does his best to maintain his anonymity so that he isn't recognized in restaurants (which is why his picture looks like it does).
I hope it was a voluntary, not forced decision. Another of those “used to go a lot, but haven’t been in a while” places. Wish them the best.