× Expand Photo by George Mahe

Brazie's Ristorante, the iconic Italian restaurant on Watson Road—"just off The Hill"—will close its doors this Saturday, after almost 26 years in service.

The restaurant announced the news in a Facebook post, noting that the decision comes “with a lot of emotion" and with gratitude to its many supporters. No specific reason was given for the closure.

The family-owned restaurant cultivated a following of loyal customers during its long run. “So many to thank but most of all our customers, who became our family,” the restaurant said. "You filled our seats for so many years and in doing so have brought much happiness to our Dream Team."

Located on a busy intersection adjacent to The Hill, Brazie’s made a name for itself as one of the most underrated Italian restaurants in the city. Previously, it operated from a space down the street on Hampton Avenue.

× Expand Photo by Alexa Beattie

Photo by Alexa Beattie Namesake Brazie Mazzola

For years, chef-owner Brazie Mazzola offered a menu with made-from-scratch dishes. Popular items included veal and Shrimp Brazie (pictured above), flash-fried shrimp served with a creamy white wine caper sauce. Mazzola's sauces were made in small batches from a recipe passed down from his Sicilian grandmother.

Brazie’s was a family affair. For a time, Mazzola’s sisters, Gina and Rosa, worked at the restaurant along with his brother, Mario, and his daughter, Maria. Staff members often stayed for years, contributing to the restaurant's family vibe.

“Here’s to the best damn dream team any restaurant could have. We had each other’s backs always,” the restaurant said on Facebook. “Brazie himself would like to thank all of you, we will keep everyone in our hearts, and here’s to dining ‘off the Hill.’”