A Final Farewell to Auburn’s Beloved Family-Run Restaurant

AUBURN, N.Y. (WSYR-TV) — For three generations, the Italian Cuisine at Hollywood Restaurant was not the only reason for keeping its customers walking through their doors — a restaurant known for highlighting how the best times are spent with your family at the dinner table.

A ritual that the Collela Family says they are experts in.

For the past 91 years, Auburn neighbors have treasured their dining experience and memories made at the Hollywood Restaurant until today when this local gem locks its doors for the last time tonight.

The current owner of Hollywood Restaurant Joey Colella Jr. is the last of three generations to keep the eatery running. Joey and his parents were raised right in the Cucina blending their love for each other and the customers just like their homemade sauce.

Just like the many ingredients used to make their sauce Colella says, Steve Colella, his cousin was the key spice for the restaurant’s signature flavor. “I call him my right-hand man. He did just as much as I did here,” said Colella.

The closing was announced on the restaurant’s Facebook page by the owner. The post’s comment section is flooded with positive customer experiences — a reminder that this gem on Clark Street has touched many people who have walked through the doors.

“We are all a close-knit family, everybody contributes a major part of this restaurant. They’re the ones that really make it work,” said Collela.

As the restaurant closes its doors for good tonight, the heritage of one of the oldest restaurants in Auburn will forever roam the streets.

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