After 25 years in business, a restaurant in Lackawanna County is calling it quits.
Amici in Clarks Summit will be open a few more weeks, but the owners said they’ve sold the place. The owners of Amici said they got an offer they just couldn’t refuse.
The restaurant first opened in 1987 in Clarks Summit and the owners have been hands-on ever since. Mark Massetti, Sean Scanlon and Woody Wilson not only own Amici, they wait tables there also.
“We all do, that’s what the three of us do. We cook, we’re waiters, we wear all kinds of hat, every hat,” said Massetti.
Amici has been part of the Abingtons for about 25 years.
But now the owners must explain to customers that they are closing.
“It is very bittersweet. It’s been 25 years that we’ve been here and it’s hard to believe it’s coming to an end,” added Massetti.
It is a place with a lot of regulars. One group of women there Wednesday night is among them. They said they are crushed at the news.
“Oh, my God, I was devastated because we’re here all the time and we love the guys,” said Elaine Shepard.
“They’re always so pleasant and everything is so perfect. The food is good, just what you want. It’s like home away from home,” said Carol Chisdak.
Those who are buying this place tell the current owners that they are going to tear the building down, but they have not said what the plans are for the Amici location along the Morgan Highway.
“I’m very disappointed for us and very happy for them. That’s the way it works though, whenever you have a good offer, you can’t pass it up,” added Chisdak.
The owners said the toughest part is parting with loyal employees who have worked at the restaurant for years.
“They’re all great people and all our customers have been great through the years. They’ve supported us, they’re family, too. Amici means friends and we have so many of them,” said Massetti.
Amici is closing March 18. Some of the regulars said they plan to go back numerous times before then.
