Image/Riccardo’s By The Bridge Facebook

Another Astoria institution has fallen victim to the long-term effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Riccardo’s By The Bridge, located at 21-04 24th Ave., has closed permanently.

Since 1951, Riccardo’s has hosted countless milestones for Astorians and more. From weddings and baptisms to birthdays and holiday parties, many have celebrated life’s special moments at this legendary neighborhood establishment. Riccardo’s By The Bridge was opened by Richard Corbisiero Sr., and has remained a family-operated venue throughout its near seven-decade run. The venue’s closure was announced yesterday via press release and social media.

After months of closure with no end or path to safely opening in sight, the team at Riccardo’s made the incredibly difficult decision to close its doors. Anthony Corbisiero, current President of Riccardo’s By The Bridge wrote the following: “We are proud of what we’ve done over the years. Our business goal was to create a venue that was affordable to the widest group of people possible while showing them a great time, a great value, all at a great price. And we succeeded. Making sure we remained affordable meant that the greatest number of people could have the greatest number of celebrations at a place featuring —if I may say so myself— the GREATEST fried calamari anywhere. We will truly miss sharing in the events of your lives; it has truly been an honor to serve you all.”

Give Me Astoria would like to wish the best of luck to the team at Riccardo’s going forward. If you would like to read the full post by Mr. Corbisiero, please visit here.