Beloved Italian restaurant Caffe Vialetto has announced it will close its doors after "26 wonderful years." The team made the heartwrenching announcement to its loyal patrons on Instagram in the early hours of Wednesday, July 16. The post includes a slideshow of photos over the past two decades, with photos captured by event photographer Robert F. Suarez.
The caption reads, "After decades of flavor and friendship, we're saying goodbye. To our incredible community, after 26 wonderful years, we are closing our doors at Caffe Vialetto. What started as a humble eatery has grown into something far greater: a space filled with laughter, memories, and heartfelt moments shared over meals. We're endlessly grateful for your support, your stories, and your appetite. Thank you for making us part of your celebrations, your quiet evenings, and your traditions, and we couldn't be more honored!"
Founded by Marcelo Chopa (left) and Ernie Fernandez (right) in 1999, Caffe Vialetto stood out in Coral Gables for its inventive fusion of Italian cuisine and inviting atmosphere
Screenshot via Instagram/@caffevialetto
Longtime Customers Respond: "More than Wonderful Meals. Family."
Loyal customers immediately took to the comments of the Instagram post throughout the morning, with some writing, "Wishing you the best! I'm heartbroken! So many memories!" "I'm in shambles," "There are not many restaurants in Miami that can last and thrive for 26 years...certainly not an easy feat and the two of you did it always with hard work, service forward, and delicious food...my family and I will always be grateful for sitting at your tables and all the memories!"Other heartfelt comments read, "We are so grateful to you. More than just wonderful meals. Mi familia! From my family to yours. We love you." "My home and my people forever," and "No! My favorite restaurant! I'm heartbroken."
Caffe Vialetto's Impact on the Gables
Founded by owners Ernie Fernandez and Marcelo Chopa in 1999, Caffe Vialetto stood out in Coral Gables for its inventive fusion of Italian cuisine with Latin and Caribbean influences. It offered dishes like pear and gorgonzola cheese-filled ravioli covered in gorgonzola fondue and beer-battered shrimp tempura topped with a spicy chili guava drizzle.The restaurant's warm, intimate ambiance and attentive service created a dining experience that felt both upscale and welcoming. Signature dishes like "The Funk" dessert, which is a creative twist on the tiramisu with Heath Bar crunch and blueberry sauce, were a testament to its love of innovation.
May Not Be the Last of Caffe Vialetto
The restaurant's final day of service will be on Saturday, August 16, when it hopes to see familiar faces in its warm dining room. "Thank you for being part of our story," concludes the statement.Although the loss will be tremendous in the City Beautiful, there is a glimmer of hope: the restaurant has hinted that another project — or location — may be on the horizon "soon!"
Caffe Vialetto. 4019 Le Jeune Rd., Coral Gables; 305-446-5659; caffevialetto.com. Closing on Sunday, August 17, 2025.
