Bistro di Marino, a well-loved Italian restaurant in New Jersey, has abruptly closed its Sewell location, leaving many customers shocked and disappointed. The restaurant, which had built a strong following since its opening just before the pandemic, was known for its cosy ambience and delicious cuisine.
Many locals had come to appreciate the restaurant for family gatherings, date nights, and special events like baby showers and bridal showers.
Just a week ago, everything seemed to be running smoothly at the Sewell location. However, a winter storm on February 12, 2025, forced the restaurant to close for the day.
A sign on the door informed customers that the restaurant was shutting down due to ongoing winter weather conditions and apologized for any inconvenience. At the time, customers expected the restaurant to reopen two days later for Valentine’s Day reservations. Unfortunately, that never happened.
According to the Courier Post, the sudden closure left customers scrambling. Employees at the flagship Collingswood location were reportedly calling those who had made reservations in Sewell to inform them that their bookings could not be honoured.
Many customers, including those who had planned special events, were left in a difficult position. One person took to the South Jersey Food Scene Facebook page to express their frustration, explaining that their baby shower had been scheduled at the now-closed restaurant.
Restaurant owner Marino expressed his regret and asked for understanding about the unexpected closure. He emphasized that 2024 had been an incredibly challenging year economically, making it difficult to keep the Sewell location running. Despite the closure, the original Bistro di Marino in Collingswood remains open and continues to serve loyal patrons.
The news of the closure quickly spread on social media, with many customers sharing their disappointment and support. In fact, the South Jersey Food Scene Facebook page became so overwhelmed with posts about the closure that administrators eventually requested people to stop posting about it.
Marino urged the community to continue supporting small, independently owned restaurants, acknowledging the hardships that many businesses are facing. He reassured customers that no business ever wants to close its doors, and he is grateful for the support the restaurant has received over the years.
While the Sewell location is now a thing of the past, the Collingswood location remains a staple in the local dining scene. Customers who love the restaurant’s offerings can still visit the original location and support the business as it navigates these challenging times.
The sudden closure of a restaurant like Bistro di Marino highlights the ongoing struggles that many small businesses continue to face in today’s economy. Rising costs, unpredictable weather, and changing consumer habits all contribute to the difficulties that restaurants must navigate. While larger chains may have the financial stability to endure these challenges, smaller independent restaurants often struggle to stay afloat.
Many customers expressed their sadness over the closure, sharing fond memories of meals enjoyed at the Sewell location. Some described it as their go-to spot for celebrations, while others praised its excellent customer service and welcoming atmosphere. The loss of the Sewell location serves as a reminder of the importance of supporting local businesses before it’s too late.
For those who had upcoming reservations or events planned at the restaurant, finding a new venue on short notice has proven to be a challenge. Many have turned to social media for recommendations, while others are reaching out to nearby restaurants for availability. This unexpected situation serves as a cautionary tale for anyone planning an event—always have a backup plan in place.
Despite the disappointment, many customers are rallying behind Bistro di Marino’s Collingswood location, vowing to continue their support. Marino remains optimistic about the future of his flagship restaurant and hopes to see his loyal customers there. He also expressed gratitude for the understanding shown by the community during this difficult transition.
The closure of the Sewell location may have come as a shock, but it also underscores the resilience of small business owners and the loyalty of their customers. While one chapter has closed, another continues, and Bistro di Marino’s Collingswood location remains a testament to the hard work and dedication that built the brand in the first place.
As the restaurant industry continues to evolve, establishments like Bistro di Marino must find ways to adapt to the changing landscape. Whether through expanded delivery options, special promotions, or community events, there are ways for businesses to stay competitive and thrive. For now, customers can still enjoy the beloved dishes and warm atmosphere that made Bistro di Marino a favourite in New Jersey.
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