PAULSBORO, NJ — An Italian restaurant in South Jersey is permanently closing, with ownership citing a sharp rise in costs and fewer diners over the past year.
Osteria 545 opened five years ago in Paulsboro, offering modern Italian cuisine, a full bar, and spaces for events and banquets.
Owners Rich and Lisa Shaget announced Monday that the restaurant will be closing its doors.
“In the end, the economic pressures have become too great,” they wrote on the restaurant’s Facebook page. “Over the past year, we’ve witnessed a significant shift—fewer people dining out, while the costs of food, liquor, electricity, and other essentials have risen sharply. These increases have far outpaced what small, independent restaurants like ours can reasonably absorb, making this decision both heartbreaking and necessary.”
The announcement didn’t say whether the restaurant had already closed. Patch tried calling and emailing the business and will update with any response.
Osteria 545 will contact anyone who placed a deposit for a future event to arrange the next steps.
“We are committed to a respectful transition for all our guests,” the announcement said.
Dining and Cooking