After abruptly closing then briefly reopening, a MetroWest Italian restaurant announced that it will be closing for the second time within three weeks.
Erica’s Ristorante in Ashland said on Facebook Wednesday that it will close again after owner Sam Cannarozzi experienced several health issues that stemmed from work.
“Obviously, from our post two nights ago we were excited to reopen. Only a small group of people are aware that Sam has a heart condition and his cardiologist has been managing it. The night before last, he experienced chest pain for a long period of time, we went to the emergency room early yesterday morning and he was discharged later in the day,” his wife, Erica, wrote in the post.
“Every doctor and nurse that saw him said he has to alleviate stress. He’s been in the restaurant business for over 40 years, and as everyone knows, it’s a tough business,” she continued. “I’m only divulging this information to explain to our loyal customers and staff that this was not anticipated or planned.”
She went on to say, “I will miss so many people I’ve grown to love over the last almost nine years. I never thought it would end this way but health comes first. Sam and I will miss all our friends and our incredible staff for all the memories.”
Erica’s Ristorante first said it was closing its doors “due to health and personal reasons,” on Oct. 15.
“Words cannot express our gratitude for your business and loyalty over the last 8 1/2 years,” a Facebook post read. “We have met so many wonderful people and have formed so many friendships that we will cherish forever. Ashland is a wonderful community and we appreciate all that it gave to us.”
Cannarozzi previously told MassLive that the original closure was not planned and confirmed that his health issues are what led to closing the restaurant’s doors. However, after making some lifestyle changes, Cannarozzi started to feel much better and decided to reopen the beloved Italian eatery on Oct. 30.
“We’re back and we’ve missed you!,” the restaurant wrote in a Facebook post on Oct. 27. “Join us to enjoy your favorite dishes and cocktails, new seasonal flavors, and the same friendly faces you’ve missed. We can’t wait to welcome you back!”
“We’re happy that we’re going back,” Cannarozzi previously said. “We’re moving in the right direction.”
Cannarozzi also expressed his sincere gratitude to his staff and the community for their outpouring of support, saying, “We’re very excited to see everyone.”
Erica’s Ristorante opened at 78 Front St. in Ashland in February of 2017, the Concord Journal reported at the time. The restaurant specializes in serving classic Italian dishes in a casual dining.
Menu items range from pizzas and pastas to entrees such as Stacked Eggplant and Chicken Piccata. In addition, the restaurant’s cocktail menu features classic spirits, beer and wine.
If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
Dining and Cooking