Has Borboni closed?

Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Peter on January 27, 2012 at 11:29

Can I just take this opportunity to once again warmly recommend the "Bianca" Italian restaurant at 419 Green Lanes.

Much was said about the "authenticity" of "I Borboni", but in my experience and opinion (and I have had many meals in Italy, from the north to Sicily), "Bianca" always beat it hands down in that respect (even though it's not actually run by Italians!).

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Germana on February 12, 2012 at 21:05

I met the guys who ran I Borboni and I am sad to report that yes, they have closed the restaurant. They said the rent was put up by the owner of the premises and they felt it was no longer feasible to keep the prices they were charging, but they didn't think increasing them would have been realistic either. They are looking for somewhere else to re-open it (or something similar) and they know they need more variety of dishes, so they said they will need a bigger kitchen than the one they had there. 

Peter, I go to Bianca regularly and I like it and would encourage people to support it too - but this was a different kind of thing and it's a shame it hasn't worked. I wish them luck. I am sure they have learned about the restaurant market around here, so I hope it will go better next time (and hopefully they won't just go somewhere else). 

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Peter on February 13, 2012 at 8:34

I, too, wish them luck next time round, with the experience they've gained.

It's galling to hear that they've been priced out by a rent increase at a time when we (and they) are really having to watch spending.

• ▶ Reply

Permalink Reply by Stuart on February 13, 2012 at 13:23

I'd second that. Lovely guys who really tried to make a difference. Menu was hit and miss but when they got it right, it was terrific value. And the best coffee on Green Lanes.

• ▶ Reply