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Via Lago in Lexington to close: Readers share memories of the local ‘Cheers’
When sharing their heartfelt goodbyes to the longtime bistro, one reader even wrote a poem.
After more than 30 years in business, Lexington bistro Via Lago announced it would close at the end of the month, marking a bittersweet ending to its loyal customers in MetroWest.
Its owner, Alan Jick, said the restaurant’s lease was up, and he decided now was not the time to renew it. A mainstay in Lexington known for casual lunches by day, candlelit dinners and a full bar by night, and its catering services, Jick also told the Lexington Observer that their corporate catering services never rebounded to pre-pandemic business levels. On top of economic uncertainty globally, he felt it was too risky to lock into a lease.
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“I hope that you will have a chance to stop in and give us an opportunity to thank you in person,” Jick said in a social media post. “You folks, our amazing and hardworking staff of over 37 years, and this crazy place have been my life’s work, and I thank you for that.”
Boston.com asked readers to share their favorite memories and meals at Via Lago ahead of the restaurant closing for good in May. The bistro’s customers praised its value, its homey feeling, its lunch sandwiches, and the staff. One fan even shared a poem.
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Here’s what readers shared about what they’ll miss most from Via Lago:
“A favorite haunt for locals and those in the know. Great value for a great meal! Will be sorely missed!” – Rich M. of Lexington
“[I’ll miss] everything — the ambiance, food, prices, staff, my Thanksgiving takeout dinner. So many fond memories and especially the great conversations with the owner Al and him always having to help me make a decision what to eat each time I went for dinner. Was so sad to receive the email that they were closing but wish only the best for Al.” – Elaine S. of Watertown
“Via Lago was a safe space for my daughter to take a break from LHS classes; to have her first date; and many dates thereafter; for us to celebrate my birthday; to hash out friendship issues; to just have a meal in a friendly, community-oriented atmosphere. I loved the takeout, which helped me avoid cooking when I was too tired. I will miss this member of our community and wish the landlord would think about the impact of these decisions on more than just his or her bottom line! Lexington is losing part of the very fiber of its town center and one of the few remaining places that encourage community rather than isolation and quick runs to the bank.” – Marianne F. of Lexington
“Via Lago is the ‘Cheers’ of Lexington, where everybody knows your name. Everybody’s happy place. Great food, atmosphere, and staff will be missed by many. I wish Al, Joyce, and the staff only the best on their next adventure.” – Annie of Lexington
“Excellent staff, wonderful owner, and terrific food at affordable prices. We have been going here since it was a takeout restaurant.” – Mike and Denyce C. of Bedford
“As a teen I just loved a simple but amazing BLT on their French baguette. I would frequent Via Lago in the 90s after high school got out. Extra bacon every time. My heart probably is not so happy with that decision, but it sure was delicious.” – Kate A. of South Burlington, Vermont
“In a word: Joyce, hostess extraordinaire. Joyce is so much more than that. She remembers your name, she treats you like family, she is never flustered. She has been the backbone of Via Lago. Alan would agree. We are so glad to count her in our fond memories of our 19 years living in Lexington. Truly sad this great neighborhood restaurant is closing. Every good thing comes to an end. Thank you, Alan, Joyce, and the whole crew for all you did for us all these years. Be healthy and happy and celebrate your great accomplishment.” – Pamela G. of Brunswick, Maine
“Such sad news to read from Idaho! I will miss so much about Via Lago. It was always at the top of my list of off-campus lunch stops in high school, and even though I haven’t lived in Lexington since 2006, it’s always at the top of my list of places to go when I’m home to visit my family! French bread with fresh mozzarella, tomato, prosciutto, olive oil, and basil will always be my favorite! Thanks to everyone at Via Lago over the years for making such delicious memories!” – Becky K. of Teton Valley, Idaho (originally from East Lexington)
“The long-time staff who knew me as a kid and now know my kids. My sister and I both worked there in high school, college, and [beyond]. No one makes a better tomato, mozzarella, basil sandwich or a prosciutto mozzarella sandwich.” – Danielle B. of Boston
“Our go-to neighborhood place since it opened, when it was a counter-order place for lunch. Brought the kids. They loved Joyce! I’ll miss the breakfast.” – John L. of Lexington
“First, consistently great food at reasonable prices. Second, the people that work there during both lunch and dinner. Lastly, the sense of community that a long-time restaurant created.” – Peter of Woburn
“This was our dining room from home. We entertained there, celebrated there, dropped in for Donna’s omelets, took home sandwiches whenever downtown, ordered their homemade chicken soup when ill, received every fresh roasted Thanksgiving dinner, and thought in our old age Via Lago would always be there for us. Nothing lasts, not the good or the bad. Thank you for our memories.” – Florence P.
“We are very disappointed that Via Lago is closing. Given the ridiculous menu prices at most restaurants now, where $150 seems to be a minimum tab for two people, Via Lago was a gift. Reasonable prices, wonderful variety, cozy setting, and good food and drink. We went often, and you could tell people loved going there. It was a happy crowd. And a busy morning and midday destination as well. Had there been a GoFundMe campaign to save it, we would have contributed, as, we believe, would have hundreds of other Via Lago devotees. Let’s hope that Lexington won’t fill the space with yet another real estate office, bank, or hair salon.” – Laurie O. of Concord
It’s hard to believe that you’re closing your door,
A place we’ve all loved, and will love evermore.
From breakfast to dinner, and everything between,
You were more than a restaurant — you were part of our scene.
It started with Loggers — so simple, so right,
Eggs, cheese, and sausage, a perfect first bite.
Then lunches with Shire, with salads so fresh,
Grilled cheeses and paninis — pure lunchtime success.Quesadillas and fries, every meal made with care,
With Donna and Danny always right there.
Not just employees, but friends through the years,
With kindness and laughter, and maybe some cheers.Dinners with friends, or just time with Jenny,
At the bar where good stories? Yeah — we had many.
A Cosmo for her, a Manhattan for me,
Or whatever the night said our drinks had to be.Family nights too, with the kids in their place,
Ordering buttered pasta (no cheese on that face!).
The staff would just grin, with a wink or a tease —
“I feel you, girl” — they served it with ease.And those rare perfect days — we’d never deny —
We pulled off the triple Via: breakfast, lunch, and pie.
Each meal had a memory, a moment to save,
In the cozy, warm corner that everyone craved.And oh, the lasagnas — you knew how to please,
You whipped them up fast, like it took you no tease.
They came in a pinch, hot and hearty and grand,
Like everything else, made with love by your hand.So here’s our goodbye — not easy to do,
We’ll miss every meal, every memory too.
Thank you for laughter, for comfort, for cheer,
For being a bright, steady spot year after year.With love and deep thanks as you finish this ride,
We carry your flavor and warmth deep inside. – Fred and Jen B.
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