After 14 years of “blood, sweat and tears,” an Aspinwall-based restaurateur is calling it quits.
“It was time,” said Sheri Rice on Monday of Luke and Mike’s Frontporch, the popular bar and restaurant she co-owns with her ex-husband, Billy Rice. “We did try and make this corner beautiful and try to bring something special to Aspinwall.”
Luke and Mike’s Frontporch, situated at 235 Commercial Ave., is listed for sale for $395,000, which includes the liquor license.
“It’s turnkey ready, and if they want help with recipes, all those things, I can help,” said Rice, an O’Hara resident.
The casual, bistro-style American restaurant leases the property and 11 years remain on the leasing agreement.
For Rice, operating a restaurant named after her two now-grown sons has been a blessing.
Mike Rice was on hand Monday as his mother walked around the outdoor bar and patio, all decorated with holiday lights.
Rice’s sons own their own bar and will not be taking over Luke and Mike’s.
Executive chef Blakely Aluise mirrored Rice’s sentiments.
“It was just time,” Aluise said of the decision to close.
Longtime general manager Lou Curcio thanked the loyal customers that have supported Luke and Mike’s.
“There’s been a lot of love,” Curcio said. “We’re all comfortable with the situation and we’d rather go out on top.”
The restaurant is housed in a historic train station.
“When we got here, this was nothing — I mean nothing. It was a swampy mess and we created all of this,” Rice said. “I hope that someone that gets this keeps that neighborhood, outdoor vibe.”
Rice plans to retire but Curcio won’t have as much free time — he serves on Aspinwall Council and was recently appointed to the Foxwall EMS board.
The popular eatery is hosting a two-day goodbye bash gathering for customers on Dec. 27-28 on its closing weekend.
“Come in have your favorite food and drinks and say goodbye. We’ll all miss it terribly and I think everybody is realizing it’s the end of a little era here so there’s some sadness,” Rice said. “Thank you, thank you, thank you to the neighborhood. It’s absolutely been our pleasure to serve this community.”
Luke and Mike’s is only accepting cash now until its closing.
