Amici Italian Restaurant Closing in St. Augustine

Amici Italian Restaurant, a staple of the St. Augustine dining scene for more than two decades, has announced it will likely close its doors by the end of June. The restaurant has served as a prominent gathering place for locals and visitors on Anastasia Island since 2001, hosting countless celebrations and community events.

Owner Freddy Underhill shared the news this week, citing a difficult six-year stretch marked by significant external challenges. The ownership team took over the establishment in March 2020, just days before the global pandemic forced widespread shutdowns. Since then, the business has navigated the impacts of multiple hurricanes, rising operational costs, and persistent labor shortages.

Despite efforts to keep the burners lit, the combination of equipment failures and the increasing cost of doing business has made continued operations unsustainable. While the owner mentioned a slim possibility of a last-minute savior for the business, the team is currently preparing for a final farewell. Management has already notified the staff and is actively working to help employees transition to new opportunities within the local hospitality industry.

Amici Italian Restaurant has been more than just an eatery for the St. Augustine community. It has functioned as a backdrop for weddings, birthdays, and local charity fundraisers for 23 years. The loss of the restaurant represents the end of an era for many residents who viewed the establishment as a touchstone of the local culture.

Patrons are encouraged to visit the restaurant one last time before the end of the month to share memories and support the staff. The potential closure highlights the ongoing pressures faced by independent restaurateurs in the current economic climate. For now, the community prepares to say goodbye to a familiar friend on the local culinary map.