CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas — Residents and customers said goodbye to a longtime fixture on Padre Island on Saturday night, at least at this location.
Island Italian was packed with well wishers, sorry to see their favorite restaurant and bar open for the last time at their long time location on Park Road 22.
Owner Tony Tagliaferro says he's been there for 37 years and the packed house made tonight feel like a family goodbye.
"It fills my heart. I mean, these people have been coming in here for years. Some of these people have 3 generations coming in here. It, it's more than just a restaurant. It's a place where people gather, it's a place where people make friends and stuff like that. It's just, it's very heartwarming," he said.
Tagliaferro says he already has an acre and a half tract of land for a brand new island Italian just past Seashore Academy and hopes to be back in business as soon as he rebuilds.
More from 3News on KIIITV.com:
- 'Killin' Time': Clint Black to headline Rodeo Corpus Christi in May 2025
- Man fatally shot by off-duty CCISD officer near Walmart on Greenwood Drive
- Chief 'Dad' Alan Holt on paternity leave until Jan. 6
- Mother, lifelong CNA, saves lives through organ donation
- Enjoy free admission to these 3 local museums for the holidays
- Kleberg County Sheriff ready to assist in Trump's deportation plans
- Law enforcement officials stress safety when helping a driver in need
Subscribe to our YouTube channel for your daily news and exclusive extended interviews.
Do you have a news tip? Tell 3!
Email tell3@kiiitv.com so we can get in touch with you about your story should we have questions or need more information. We realize some stories are sensitive in nature. Let us know if you'd like to remain anonymous.