Chef-owner Umberto Pala of San Jose’s Vin Santo posted “a heartfelt farewell” note on his restaurant’s social media Wednesday:
“After 17 wonderful years, it is with a heavy heart that we announce the closure of Vin Santo. This decision was not made lightly, as we have cherished every moment spent serving you and creating memories together.”
The announcement rocked his clientele.
“I am absolutely crushed to hear this,” Jessica Stevens wrote. “I have SO many memories here and it has always remained one of my absolute favorite restaurants ANYWHERE.”
The proprietors of the Mariette premium chocolate shop nearby posted: “Thank you for being a lovely neighbor, for serving Willow Glen & nourishing your patrons with your delicious creations all these years. Sorry to see you go. You will be missed. All the best to you on your next chapter.”
Other customers reminisced about special occasion dinners held at this Lincoln Avenue restaurant and talked of how much they will miss Pala’s signature dishes, especially the Cinghiale al Tartufo su Tagliatelle (wild boar braised for four hours with red wine and served over pasta) and the Ravioli di Pere (housemade pasta stuffed with pear, mascarpone and mozzarella and tossed with an Alfredo-gorgonzola sauce).
Pala, who was born and raised in Bergamo, Italy, started working in restaurant kitchens at the age of 14 and completed culinary studies at the San Pellegrino Hotel School before moving to California.
The news comes just a week after Braise Restaurant & Bar nearby shut down and less than two months after the Black Sheep Brasserie owners announced they had sold their restaurant, also located on Lincoln Avenue. Braise chef Anthony “AJ” Jimenez had said it was financially impossible to keep the business going. A boutique down the street, Three Sisters, closed July 31 after the rent more than doubled.
Pala could not be reached immediately for further comment.
His parting note to customers closed with, “Thank you for allowing us to be a part of your lives. We will miss you dearly and hope to carry the spirit of Vin Santo in our hearts as we move forward.”
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates.