Derby Restaurant Set To Close After 5 Years In Business

DERBY, CT — The owners of Retro Grub and Pub announced Wednesday the restaurant will close next week after nearly five years in business.

In a Facebook post, owner Gary Pettinella said the restaurant's last day of operation will be July 7, with a celebration scheduled to take place that night featuring live music.

"I would like to thank my entire family for their support during this adventure," Pettinella said. "Without them I couldn't have been able to manage a regular life outside of the restaurant."

According to Pettinella, he came up with the idea for Retro with his brother and a friend almost half a decade ago, envisioning a place that could greatly serve residents of Derby and other nearby communities.

"As many of you know, I was raised in Derby," Pettinella said. "My father's restaurant was in Derby, and Derby has always been home to me. So when this location opened up, it was like a sign that we just could not pass up."

Pettinella also thanked his staff, both past and present employees, for their hard work, determination and help during both good and hard times.

"And lastly, to all our loyal customers," Pettinella said. "Without all of you, none of this would have been possible, and I thank you from the bottom of my heart."

Retro boasts a menu that offers bar favorites such as nachos, burgers and wood-fired pizzas, as well as unique items like meatball parmigiana empanadas, porchetta and caramelized salmon florentine. The bar features a rotating draft beer list and a wide variety of spirits.

According to Pettinella, the restaurant has also hosted a number of celebrations for customers over the years, including weddings, birthdays, holidays and graduations.