Italian restaurant that’s ‘like family’ announces closure

The restaurant has been a favourite in Mossley Hill for more than a decade

10:09, 02 Jun 2026Updated 10:10, 02 Jun 2026

Kevin and Shoonagh De La Cruz, owners of L’Olivetto on Rose Lane(Image: Liverpool ECHO)

An Italian restaurant has announced its closure after 12 years. L’Olivetto on Rose Lane in Mossley Hill has welcomed customers for more than a decade, becoming a fixture for families across South Liverpool and beyond.

The restaurant, run by Shoonagh De La Cruz and her husband Kevin, serves up a selection of pizza and pasta dishes, as well as its popular roasts on Sundays. In a post shared to Instagram last night (June 1), the owners confirmed they are set to close their doors in a few weeks time.

The post reads: “Dear Customers, after 12 wonderful years, the time has come for us to close the doors of L’Olivetto.

“This hasn’t been an easy decision. What started as a dream became something far bigger because of all of you. We’ve shared birthdays, anniversaries, first dates, family dinners, and countless plates of pasta together.

“You supported us through the good times, the difficult times, and even those days when the chef was convinced he was on MasterChef.

“Along the way, life blessed us with our beautiful son, Oisín. As much as L’Olivetto has been our baby for the last 12 years, it now feels like the right time to slow down a little and spend more time watching our little boy grow up — before he’s too cool to hang around with us.

Rose Lane in Mossley Hill(Image: Liverpool Echo)

“From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for every visit, every kind word, every recommendation, and every empty plate returned to the kitchen.

“L’Olivetto was never just a restaurant to us — it was a family, a community, and a huge part of our lives. We will miss the laughter, the busy nights, and seeing familiar faces walk through the door.

“To all our loyal customers, staff past and present, friends, and suppliers: thank you for making the last 12 years so special.

“Our final day of service will be Sunday 28th June, so for the next four weeks we’d love to see the restaurant filled with the people who made it all possible.

“Come and join us for one last glass of wine, one more bowl of pasta, and help us make these final weeks ones to remember.

“With love and gratitude, Kevin, Shoonagh, Oisín & the team.”

More updates on the restaurant can be found on its website and social media pages.