Tony Mandina's in Gretna to close after 42 years

After almost 42 years in business, Tony Mandina's Restuarant in Gretna will close its doors for good on Saturday, June 29th. The iconic Italian restaurant has been a staple for families and friends on the Westbank of Jefferson Parish, serving as a gathering place for various occasions for almost 4 decades.

Photo bytonymandinas.com

On Sunday afternoon, the Mandina Family made the annoucement via their Facebook page, posting a heartfelt message to their customers.

"It is with love and gratitude that we announce the closing of Tony Mandina’s Restaurant. It has been an incredible journey serving our community over the past 42 years. We are eternally grateful for your unwavering support and patronage. You have welcomed us into your lives, making us a part of your cherished celebrations and memories. It is with fond memories that we look back on the friendships formed and the joy that Tony Mandina’s has brought to so many. As we prepare to bid farewell, we extend our deepest gratitude to our staff, suppliers, and everyone who has contributed to our journey. Your dedication and hard work has been invaluable. We are proud to announce that our legacy will live on through our beloved “Red Gravy” pasta sauce and our cookbook “Tony Mandina’s Kitchen”. Our final day of operation will be Saturday, June 29th. Until then, we invite you to join us in celebrating the wonderful time we’ve had together. It would be our pleasure to welcome you one last time to enjoy a meal with us and reminisce about the moments we’ve shared. We thank you once again for being a part of our Tony Mandina’s family! Stay tuned for what’s next."

With heartfelt appreciation, The Mandina Family

Photo byTony Mandina's

The iconic restuarant was opened in November 1982 by Tony and Grace Mandina, Tony would work in the restaurant making bread from scratch while Grace used her talents in the kitchen, along with family members, to cook their Italian dishes, most of which are still made from scratch today, including soups, lasagna, pasta dishes, and Tony’s own Sicilian Pasta Sauce known as Tony Mandina’s “Red Gravy”. The “Red Gravy” can be purchased at local neighborhood grocery stores, Amazon and of course, the restaurant.

Photo bytonymandinas.com

“We are all about la famiglia, and our family is very proud of our heritage and the restaurant is an extension of that.” says Tony and Grace.

Their daughters, Kim, Kolette, and Keri began working in their parents' restaurant at a young age evenually moving into management over the years and running the day to day operations of the business. In January 2020, Kolette and her daughter, Lindsey took over the reigns of Tony Mandina's.

Photo bywww.facebook.com/tonymandina

Since the announcement of the restaurant's upcoming closure was made, hundreds of customers have shared stories and memories of the restaurant on their Facebook page.