LIFE

Indy's Milano Inn will close after 82 years

Holly V. Hays
holly.hays@indystar.com
The Milano Inn, 231 S. College Ave., opened in 1934.

After more than 80 years serving the Indianapolis community, the Milano Inn will close its doors after business on New Year's Eve.

“We have had a wonderful run, keeping the tradition alive and delivering authentic food in a bustling and fun atmosphere,” owner Tina LaGrotte said in a statement.

The restaurant, serving traditional Italian food, was opened in 1934 by Mary and Joe Modaffari. After their deaths in the early 1980s, the restaurant was purchased by local businessman Leo LaGrotte. His daughters, Tina and Gina, have owned and operated the business since his death.

The pair are thankful for customer support, Tina said in the statement, but she said it was time to move forward.

“As many know, the restaurant business is all-consuming, and with personal changes going on in our lives, we have made the difficult but necessary decision to close the business and sell," Tina said. "Growing up in the restaurant as a family affair, the Milano Inn will always be a huge part of who we are and who we have become, but it is time for us to now fully embrace the next chapter in our lives."

Details about the sale and the development of adjacent sites owned by the family are expected in the next year, according to the release.

Call IndyStar reporter Holly Hays at (317) 444-6156. Follow her on Twitter: @hollyvhays.

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