From California Post · · 1m 10s
Bakersfield’s Uricchio’s closes after 31 years
A beloved downtown Italian spot shut its doors after decades of meals, memories, and post-pandemic strain.
In brief
A beloved downtown Italian spot shut its doors after decades of meals, memories, and post-pandemic strain. Uricchio’s was more than a restaurant for Bakersfield, but rising pressures after COVID and staff losses made the family decide its run was over. Originally reported by California Post.
Last meal served
Uricchio’s Trattoria in downtown Bakersfield announced Monday that it had closed after 31 years in business.
“Dear friends, we have decided to close.”
A downtown fixture
The Italian restaurant was a favorite for Kern County power lunchers and helped bring energy to a quieter part of downtown.
Summer break became final
Uricchio’s first told customers it would take a summer break in July, then chose not to reopen.
“This decision did not come easily.”
Fans mourned the run
Customers filled the comments with memories of celebrations, weeknight dinners, and family milestones at the restaurant’s tables.
“You will be missed”
Built by Nick Uricchio
Nick Uricchio opened the restaurant in 1995 after years in Los Angeles hospitality, including the Beverly Hilton and Friars Club of Beverly Hills.
Pressure finally caught up
Claire Porter, Uricchio’s daughter, said several post-COVID strains piled up, including losing a longtime chef. She felt the restaurant had its moment.
“I feel like we had our moment in the sun and it was time.”
The headline
Uricchio’s was more than a restaurant for Bakersfield, but rising pressures after COVID and staff losses made the family decide its run was over.
