SULLIVAN COUNTY – In the coming months, three Sullivan County businesses will be seeing some new changes regarding operations and ownership.

Sal’s Pizzeria

After 35 years committed to serving their community with delicious food and exceptional customer service, Sal’s Pizzeria and Restaurant took to social media platform Facebook to announce the news that they will be closing their doors permanently. This decision has not been made lightly and comes as a result of the upcoming opening of Lorenzo’s Bistro, which will bring new opportunities for growth and development in the local restaurant scene. 

While it may be bittersweet for both loyal customers and dedicated staff members, Sal’s Pizzeria noted their gratitude for the unwavering support over the years and promises to make their remaining time in operation memorable for all.

Having grown up in the pizza industry, Sal’s Pizzeria owner Josephine Ciccione has devoted thirty-five years of her life to running and managing one of her family’s pizzerias. However, with a heavy heart and a sense of accomplishment, she said she has made the difficult decision to retire and close the business. As she embarks on this new journey, Ms. Ciccione reflects on all the hard work and dedication that went into making the restaurant a success. She looks forward to starting a new chapter in her life while cherishing the memories and experiences from her time at the pizzeria. Among the menu items at Sal’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant were the usual pizza pies, pastas, salads, and heroes, as well as some seafoods.

Lorenzo’s Bistro, owned by the former Head Chef of the Roscoe Mountain Club David Lorenzo, will reportedly operate the former restaurant and is expected to reopen in April.

In their official statement announcing the closure, Sal’s Pizzeria and the Ciccione family humbly implored their loyal patrons to visit the establishment and demonstrate their unwavering support, as they have faithfully done throughout the many years of the pizzeria’s operation.

“Thank you for being an essential part of our story. While we bid farewell to this chapter, we carry the memories with us into our next adventure,” Josephine said. “[We are] wishing you all the best, and once again, thank you for being an integral part of our pizzeria’s and restaurant legacy.”

“I want to thank my patrons, as they mean the world to me,” said Josephine. “I am going to miss them a lot, but I hope to see them around. They have been very good to me.”

Route 42 Liquor

After consistently thriving in its operations since 1962, Route 42 Liquor, located at 9 Forestburgh Road in Monticello, has made the difficult decision to permanently close its doors on Tuesday, January 30. 

The owner, Steve Plotkin, and staff expressed their gratitude to the loyal customers and community who have supported the establishment throughout its fruitful tenure. 

It has offered customers a selection of wines and liquors during the course of its many years of providing for Sullivan County residents.

El Tequilero Mexican has requested to expand its restaurant into the space.

Plotkin emphasized that El Tequilero had nothing to do with the closing. and that he was the one who had made that choice. In addition, he made it clear that he and El Tequilero Mexican were on good terms about the transition and that he was not being forced out.

Plotkin stated that the restaurant is very small and politely asked to have their kitchen extended into the rear of the Liquor Store. Additionally, he has stated that he is prepared to retire and move on.

“I am glad to retire, and I am going to keep busy in my retirement,” said Plotkin, “I have a side business dealing rare coins. I also look forward to going to the gym and being able to get some exercise.”

Soy Asian Cuisine

Soy Asian Cuisine, which was located on 512 Broadway in Monticello, closed its doors on Monday, January 15.

After ten years of service, the announcement came via a Facebook post from the official page for Soy on the morning of January 2.

Their website states that the restaurant “carefully chose the freshest and highest quality ingredients to prepare each and every dish.”

The website also stated that “the entire staff takes pride in providing you with nutritious food and providing a cozy and comfortable atmosphere to ensure you enjoy your entire dining experience from beginning to the end.”

The restaurant had not given a reason for their closure but said that they wanted to thank all their patrons for all their years of continued support.