Latest news with #ItalianMoon
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Iconic Grand Forks restaurant Italian Moon to close; last days June 18-20
Jun. 12—GRAND FORKS — The Italian Moon, a restaurant in Grand Forks since 1965, will close next week, its management has announced. On the restaurant's official website is a message to customers. "It is with heavy hearts that we announce the closing of Italian Moon," the website said. "This decision was not made lightly. Italian Moon has been more than just a restaurant — it has been a gathering place for families, friends, celebrations and everyday moments. We've had the privilege of serving generations of loyal guests, and we are truly grateful for the memories made within our walls." Its final days open will be June 18, 19 and 20, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. while supplies last, according to a sign outside the restaurant. A Greenberg Realty "property for sale" sign sat beside it. According to past Herald coverage, The Moon opened in 1965, originally operated by Keith Moon. Its menu has specialized in pizza and pasta, along with other American and even Mexican fare. It operated for some four decades under Ken Towers before Scott Purpur took over ownership in 2015. Purpur, the restaurant's owner, previously was a soft drink district sales manager. In a 2012 review of the restaurant, Herald columnist Marilyn Hagerty said, "The Moon seems to cater to a broad spectrum. The regulars come from all walks of life and of all ages." And in 2021, she wrote: "The fact that there is no front door at the Moon sets the theme. The place is different from many chain or group restaurants because in these days it is one of a kind. With some customers, it is most popular on Sundays for brunch or for late afternoon visits to the salad bar." A message left for Purpur was not returned before this report was published.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
'Iconic' Italian Restaurant The Italian Moon Closing After 60 Years
An "iconic" Italian and Mexican restaurant announced its doors will be closing later this month after 60 years in business. "It is with heavy hearts that we announce the closing of Italian Moon. After many wonderful years serving the Grand Forks community, our final three days of service will be June 18th, 19th, and 20th," a statement from The Italian Moon reads. "This decision was not made lightly. Italian Moon has been more than just a restaurant—it has been a gathering place for families, friends, celebrations, and everyday moments. We've had the privilege of serving generations of loyal guests, and we are truly grateful for the memories made within our walls." Radio personality Rick Rider called the North Dakota restaurant a "staple for sure, and a household name" while referring to it as an iconic venue for the area. "This was a place enjoyed by families on their way to a UND hockey game or to watch a big high school game. At one time, it was just about impossible to find a table on a Friday or Saturday evening. It was also a popular spot for a lunch or dinner buffet in Grand Forks," Rider said. The Italian Moon got its start in February 1965 when owner Keith Moon opened an Italian restaurant. In 1974, the restaurant was sold to Ken Towers and Dave Rubin. Scott Purpur took over in 2015 and the company lasted 60 total years. "To our incredible staff, past and present, thank you for your dedication, passion, and hard work. To our customers, thank you for allowing us to be a part of your lives—we are humbled by your support and love over the years," a statement from the restaurant read before asking customers to come back for one more meal together before it closes for good. The restaurant offers its customers everything from burritos to chicken Alfredo, but will be coming to a close next week.'Iconic' Italian Restaurant The Italian Moon Closing After 60 Years first appeared on Men's Journal on Jun 12, 2025
