A Fond Farewell to Perricone’s Marketplace & Café
MIAMI — The Heartwarming Legacy of a Culinary Icon
As the sun sets on Thursday, May 16, 2024, the vibrant rhythms of Miami’s culinary landscape will dim with the closure of Perricone’s Marketplace & Café. After nearly three decades of delighting the South Florida community, this beloved establishment bids adieu, leaving behind fond memories and an indelible mark on the hearts of its patrons. Steven Perricone, the restaurant’s passionate owner, reflects on this bittersweet moment with warmth and nostalgia.
A Cherished Gathering Place
Perricone’s first opened its doors in the vibrant Brickell neighborhood on October 16, 1996. From that day forward, it became more than just a dining locale; it evolved into a cherished gathering place. Families celebrated milestones, friends gathered to discuss life over flavorful dishes, and newcomers found solace in homestyle meals. Steven Perricone famously expressed, “It’s the people and the guest. That’s the best part—the people.” Those words encapsulate the essence of the establishment—connecting lives through shared experiences and delightful cuisine.
From Brickell to New Beginnings in The Roads
In 2018, the winds of change brought a new chapter for Perricone’s. The property was sold to a hotel developer, yet the spirit of the café remained unbroken. In July 2020, the café re-emerged in a fresh, modern space located less than a mile west in The Roads neighborhood. This relocation symbolized resilience and adaptability, as its loyal following eagerly awaited the return of their favorite dishes. The handcrafted meals, full of flavor and love, continued to nourish the community amidst uncertainties.
Reflections on a Life of Service
Approaching his 70th birthday, Steven Perricone made the profound decision to retire. With two daughters pursuing their own paths in college, he yearns for moments to cherish with family, free from the busyness of restaurant life. “More time with family. It’s very important,” he shared, emphasizing the value of being spontaneous, seizing opportunities for adventure, and reinventing the traditional family dynamic.
The restaurant industry, while rewarding, comes with its set of challenges. Over nearly three decades, Perricone mastered the balance of hard work, creativity, and customer service, manifesting in a true dedication to his craft. And as he prepares to close this chapter, a sense of fulfillment accompanies the decision: a job well done, a community served.
Farewell Celebrations and Community Love
As the final day approaches, the community rallies around Perricone’s. Loyal customers are not just saying goodbye to a restaurant; they are mourning the loss of a place that held countless cherished memories. An emotional atmosphere blankets the café, where every corner resonates with laughter from past gatherings and heartfelt conversations. The final dishes served will surely be a celebration of everything that made Perricone’s special—a tribute not just to the food but also to the vibrant community that nurtured it.
A Legacy of Flavor and Connection
As puppet strings slowly unwind, allowing this cherished eatery to close its doors, the legacy of Perricone’s Marketplace & Café will linger in the Miami air. Future generations may hear whispers of the flavorful dishes that brought people together, and they will certainly appreciate the love and dedication that shaped the café.
Though its physical presence may vanish, the spirit of Perricone’s will forever reside in the hearts of those who experienced its unique warmth. Thank you, Steven, for every meal, every memory, and every moment shared at your café. Miami’s culinary landscape, though changed, will always remember the taste of community that Perricone’s Marketplace & Café offered.
