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Summer in South Florida is often a challenging season for restaurants: the high temperatures and the threat of hurricanes decrease customer traffic.
But this year, in addition to the heat, the pressure of inflation and rising operational costs are forcing several businesses to close their doors, some after decades of service.
One of the most emblematic cases is that of Andiamo Brick Oven Pizza, which after 25 years of history on Biscayne Boulevard is set to say goodbye for good at the end of September.
The restaurant, located in a historic building from the 1950s, became a landmark in the area, but it could not withstand the burden of overhead costs.
The owners, brothers Sasha and Daniel Soyka, expressed mixed feelings at this final stage. They feel sorry for the loyal customers who have continued to visit their establishment, but it is not enough to keep it open.
"We will officially close in September. I don't know how to say goodbye. To our beloved family here at Andiamo, you are the most special people, and it has been an honor to work alongside you. To our dear customers, thank you for all your support over the years. We have had a couple of tough years that made it impossible to move forward," the pizzeria said on Instagram.
A trend that is impacting the entire industry
Right across from Andiamo, Flora Plant Kitchen, a restaurant that opened in 2023 with a plant-based concept and a Latin twist, is also feeling the pressure.
Its owner, Sebastián Ochoa, explained that this summer they had to suspend dinner service to cut costs. "It has been really tough; sales have dropped by about 40% compared to what we had in April or May," he detailed to Local 10.
The list of closures continues:
Chica, a venue that operated for six years in the area, recently closed.
The iconic Osteria Del Teatro in North Bay Village has bid farewell after four decades of service.
In Miami Beach, the restaurant Lucky Cat, by chef Gordon Ramsay, announced a seasonal break.
Also at the beach, Sardinia, specializing in Italian cuisine, the shutters were closed after 20 years.
Ensenada, near Biscayne Boulevard and with less than a year of operation, announced on Instagram that it will not be reopening.
The pressure of costs
The challenges have an evident economic background.
According to the Producer Price Index (PPI), the total cost of food rose by 21% in June. One example illustrates this clearly: a box of eggs or lettuce that previously cost around $35 reached prices between $85 and $100, figures that are unsustainable for small business owners.
This increase adds to other operational expenses, such as rent and labor, in a context where consumers are also adjusting their budgets and reducing spending on restaurants.
A call to the community
From Andiamo, the Soyka brothers said goodbye with a request to Miami residents: to support their favorite local restaurants.
These days, they remember their father, Mark Soyka, who was a pioneer in the restaurant sector of the city.
While they do not rule out moving to another location, they made it clear that any future project would be on a smaller scale.
For now, Miami bids farewell to one of its beloved pizzerias amidst a crisis that continues to reshape the culinary landscape of the city.
Frequently Asked Questions about Restaurant Closures in South Florida
Why are so many restaurants closing in South Florida?
Restaurants in South Florida are closing mainly due to the pressure of inflation and rising operating costs. In addition to economic challenges, factors such as high temperatures, the threat of hurricanes, and a decline in customer numbers during the summer exacerbate the situation. The rising cost of food and other operating expenses, such as rent, also significantly contribute to the closure of these establishments.
What examples of closures of iconic restaurants are mentioned?
Among the iconic restaurants that have recently closed is Andiamo Brick Oven Pizza, which operated for 25 years on Biscayne Boulevard. Other notable closures include the restaurant Flora Plant Kitchen, Chica, Osteria Del Teatro, and Sardinia in Miami Beach. These closures reflect a trend of financial difficulties in the restaurant sector in the region.
How does the rise in food costs affect restaurants?
The increase in food costs, such as the 21% rise in the total cost of food in June, is hitting restaurants hard. For instance, staples like eggs and lettuce have seen a significant increase in their prices, making it unsustainable for many small business owners to maintain their operations. This price escalation adds to other economic challenges, further complicating the survival of local restaurants.
What actions have some restaurant owners taken to confront the crisis?
Some owners, like those of Flora Plant Kitchen, have reduced hours or services to mitigate costs. At Flora Plant Kitchen, dinner service has been suspended to cut operational expenses. However, these measures are not always enough to counteract the decline in sales and the rise in costs, leading many to close their doors for good.
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