After five decades in business, Smalley's Inn in Carmel closes

Smalley’s Inn in Carmel closed at 2 p.m. Jan. 15. The family-owed Putnam restaurant, known as much for its community vibe as it was for its haunted history, had been in business for more than five decades.

Owner Anthony Porto Sr. attributed the closing to financial reasons.

“After 55-plus years in the community, we made the difficult business decision to suspend operations and announce the closure of Smalley’s Inn," he said. “We wanted to keep our doors open longer, but health and finances dictated differently.”

For many in the area, Smalley's was a family tradition: a place to go for birthdays, anniversaries, Sunday dinners or simply to meet friends and raise a beer. Anthony Porto Jr. was known for organizing an annual Halloween party and a summer seafood festival, along with other events.

In a press release, the family thanked their valued guests, vendors and staff and said both Anthony Sr. and Anthony Jr. look forward to their next chapter.

"We would not have enjoyed years of success without the community, many of whom are now friends, and we recognize what an important icon Smalley’s Inn has become," said Anthony Sr.

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The restaurant, originally opened in 1852 by James Smalley, was rebuilt in 1924 after a fire. Serving Italian-American food, it was on many a TV show for its rumored haunted history centered around the ghost of Elizabeth Smalley, the innkeeper's daughter who died as a toddler and whose tombstone was found under the basement steps. Anthony Porto Jr. said there were at least eight or nine other spirits, as well.

The restaurant is currently listed for sale.

Know of a restaurant closing, or opening in your neighborhood? Email Jeanne Muchnick with the details, jmuchnick@lohud.com