Zobud Bistro closes

Staff reports

The restaurant Zobud Bistro has closed, its owner, Sam Redo, confirmed to the Island Dispatch on Wednesday.

Declining further comment, he said the restaurant, at 1879 Whitehaven Road, had its last day of operations Tuesday, Oct. 3.

The closing was “due to economic conditions,” according to a letter from Redo that was posted on the restaurant’s website.

In the letter, he cited the rising cost of food, utilities, insurance, payroll, unemployment taxes, and mechanical repair and replacement costs.

The restaurant specialized in Mediterranean cuisine.

Redo said the business made the difficult decision to close because the economic conditions cited “have made it impossible to consistently offer the high-quality dining experience our customers deserve at a reasonable and affordable point-price.”

Zobud Bistro opened less than six months before the pandemic hit. Redo said the business, “pivoted every step of the way.”

He said in the letter to friends and customers, “We are proud of our staff and loyal customers for keeping us doing business over the last four years. Your support was appreciated.”