June 13, 2019 By Shane O’Brien

Quaint Restaurant is closing after being in business for 13 years.

Tim Chen, who opened the restaurant in April 2006, posted a notice in the establishment’s front window earlier this week stating that his last day in operation will be June 23.

News of the closure has spread quickly and many residents and business owners are sad to see it go. Chen and his 46-10 Skillman Ave. restaurant are credited with playing a part in putting Sunnyside on the map as a dining destination. His restaurant—described as an American Bistro–won a Michelin “Bib Gourmand” on more than one occasion.

Jean Clancy, owner of Claret Wine Bar, said that Quaint helped change the dining scene in Sunnyside.

“Quaint was one of the first in a new wave of bistros in Sunnyside and definitely paved the way for all of the businesses who followed, including Claret. Tim has been an invaluable part of our community, providing great food and a lovely locale for nearly two decades.

“He has worked hard and served the neighborhood so well and we are very sorry to see Quaint close. Tim has also been very involved in helping promote and improve Skillman Avenue for our community.”

The restaurant–known for its angus burgers to ribeye steaks–made a name for itself by providing quality food at an inexpensive price.

It also gained fans for its outdoor space and distinct minimalist décor.

The restaurant’s outdoor court yard is often packed for weekend brunch. Meanwhile, its interior has a comfortable rustic feel.

Darron Cardosa, a waiter at Quaint for eight years, wrote on his website that its closure will ‘leave a hole in our little neighborhood.

“Another restaurant will eventually take its place, but it will take years for it to truly become part of the community, filling that hole ever so slowly. The hole that will take much longer to heal will be the one in my heart.”