Don Ciccio owner doubles down on his savage criticism of Highgate locals

"We tried to do everything, and despite that, we are the only Italian restaurant, probably in the world, that needs to close, not for any bad reviews, prices, quality of food or the service, but just for the indifference around us, he told the Mail Online, adding: Of course I stand by my words. He also explained to the outlet that although they had a few customers, it was very humiliating to sometimes turn around just 45 a day in revenue. We had a lot of very nice customers, but it was very tough. We were struggling there and were somehow humiliated in this place, he also told the outlet."

"Despite pointing the finger at the local community, the Food Standards Agency gave Don Ciccio restaurant a 0 out of 5-star food hygiene rating after inspecting the venue on August 8, 2025. The report states that major improvement is necessary' across food handling, building cleanliness, and food safety management. Mr Valente, who has now headed off to Italy, had earlier blamed the sheer indifference of our neighbours for closing, even though they had a 4.7-star Google rating based on over 700 reviews. Most people on TripAdvisor similarly appeared to have a positive experience at the eatery, with one reviewer calling it a truly authentic Italian gem' and another writing about the lovely ambience'."

Don Ciccio Osteria Italiana & Pizzeria closed after six years. Owner Marco Claudio Valente blamed local indifference and dwindling footfall despite positive online ratings. The owner reported humiliatingly low daily takings, sometimes as little as 45 a day, and staff enduring empty dining rooms while residents ordered takeaways. The Food Standards Agency inspected on August 8, 2025 and issued a 0 out of 5 food hygiene rating, stating that "major improvement is necessary" across food handling, building cleanliness, and food safety management. Online platforms showed a 4.7-star Google rating from over 700 reviews and mostly positive TripAdvisor comments alongside some complaints about waits and erratic food. Mr Valente has since gone to Italy.

Read at www.standard.co.uk