Owners leave message of thanks to customers
When Ala Mediterranean posted a sign on its door in June saying that it was closed “for summer break” and would be reopening in July, customers were counting the days until they could again enjoy a meal at the popular Turkish/Mediterranean eatery at 1504 Webster Street, owned by a family who migrated to Alameda more than two decades ago.
Adapted from Ala Mediterranean photos via Instagram.
Then came the bad news. On Saturday, September 6, the restaurant’s owners posted an announcement on Facebook stating that the closure would be permanent.
“It is with both sadness and deep gratitude that we share the news that Ala Mediterranean in Alameda will be closing its doors,” the announcement stated. “Since the day we opened, this restaurant has been more than a business to us—it has been our home and you, our guests, have been our extended family. Every smile, every conversation, and every shared meal has meant the world to us. Watching families gather, friendships grow, and celebrations unfold within our walls has been the greatest reward of all.”
The West Alameda Business Association (WABA) also shared the news on Facebook, echoing the owners’ sentiment. “For years, it’s been more than a restaurant—it’s been a gathering place for family, friends, and countless memories on Webster Street,” the association stated. “Thank you for filling Alameda with love, warmth, and incredible meals. You will be missed dearly.”
Image by Ala Mediterranean via Facebook.
The comments from locals who were looking forward to dining again at Ala came pouring in, on both Facebook announcements.
“We were literally just talking about heading for dinner sometime soon,” one poster commented. “Ala has been a favorite for years, not only for the incredible food, but for the wonderful welcoming atmosphere.”
Another comment stated, “It is such a loss for Alameda to lose you. So sorry to hear this.”
Similar sentiments were expressed by dozens: “You brought such an authentic and loving energy to Webster—and the food was delicious!” and “I’m so sad to hear! One of my Island favorites! Those who didn’t visit really missed out.”
Ala served Mediterranean small plates, kebabs, oven-baked dishes, and desserts. Some of the many popular menu items cited by customers included the baklava, lamb kebab dinner plate, Butcher Kofte, hummus, falafel, flaky phyllo dough stuffed with Turkish feta cheese and herbs, and Turkish wine and rice pudding.
Both the customers and the owners said they will truly miss the restaurant.
“Closing Ala Mediterranean is one of the hardest decisions we have ever made,” the owners said in their good-bye statement, “but what remains forever is the love, support, and kindness you have shown us throughout the years. We will always carry with us the joy of knowing that we were able to share a piece of our Mediterranean heritage with this wonderful community.
“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for welcoming us, supporting us, and allowing us to be a part of your lives. Though our doors will close, our gratitude and memories will stay with us always.
Dining and Cooking