11/08/2022
It is time to say goodbye. And as for most of my goodbyes, I find myself not ready - I have always procrastinated separations, departures, and new beginnings, but here we are… It is left to me to deliver Basta’s last scene.
Eighteen years of successful presence of a restaurant is indeed an accomplishment. Frank Criscuolo was fortunate when he created Basta – New Haven really embraced his vision and welcomed the intimate, warm and romantic place to celebrate life. After his passing, the Universe chose me to carry on Basta’s destiny; it was one of my life’s, richest delights.
During times of Covid, Basta fought against all odds to survive. We were supported by a cast of patrons, like a legion of angels that rescued us from each relapse, keeping vigil to our survival by weekly visits. With their help, we came through to the other side of the plague. Now we find ourselves in a new world that has no place for our quaint, intimate, and warm concept - despite all our efforts, the world’s new panacea is space. Someday, hopefully soon, the prescription will change, and trattorias all over the country will return to dispense warm closeness among us all.
I thank you all for the support and patronage throughout all these years. And whether I am ready or not, I bid you goodbye with a heart full of gratitude and hope for peace and good health for all of us. Until we meet again…
Mille Grazie
Nino Ribeiro
