Upper East Side Deli Shutters After Nearly 50 Years

UPPER EAST SIDE, NY — A local Italian eatery in Lenox Hill has closed its doors for good after nearly five decades of bringing authentic Italian staples to Second Avenue.

Mini Deli, a self-described "snug deli" best known for serving up Italian sandwiches, homemade salads and authentic espresso, shuttered last week.

The sudden closure of the Italian deli, situated at 1266 Second Avenue, nestled between East 66th and 67th Streets, was initially reported by FOX 5 NY.

Owner Pino Cinquemani, who has been at the helm for 35 years, revealed to FOX 5 NY that the decision to close was prompted by the escalating costs associated with running the business and the changing demographics of the neighborhood.

Cinquemani noted that the neighborhood has become significantly quieter, with a decline in foot traffic, making it nearly untenable for a small mom-and-pop shop to remain viable.

Mini Deli first opened in 1978 and has been operating for over four decades.

In addition to their delectable sandwiches, Mini Deli was well known for its assortment of Italian specialty grocery items.