Eastern Market Italian Eatery La Rondinella Will Shutter Just Over a Year After Debut

Just a few days past its first anniversary, Eastern Market’s well received northern Italian eatery La Rondinella will shut its doors this coming Saturday. The Detroit Free Press reports that owner Dave Mancini plans to close the restaurant with the intention of expanding his neighboring pizzeria Supino into the space. The larger Supino is slated to debut on January 31, barring any complications.

Even before it opened La Rondinella faced challenges including ballooning renovation costs, delays, and, early on, an unexpected closure. However, the wait was seemingly all worth it. La Rondinella’s food and atmosphere received a critical stamp of approval. Unfortunately, Mancini tells the Free Press that the restaurant was struggling to turn a profit.

In an end of year survey, BLAC Detroit editor Aaron Foley expressed his disappointment with the impending shutter of La Rondinella. “While it’s great that Supino will be expanding, I feel like there’s a missed opportunity to have an affordable, casual Italian place in town.”

The newly minted Supino will still feature a carryout format in its original pint-sized space while the former La Rondinella portion will offer dine-in with table service and a bar focused primarily on wine. Diners can expect the traditional thin-crust Supino slices as well as pasta of the day, seasonal salads, and appetizers. Stay tuned for updates on the Supino expansion.

• La Rondinella Closing to Make Way for Supino Expansion [Freep]

• All La Rondinella Coverage [ED]

• All Supino Coverage [ED]