Italian Restaurant Blames Closure on Wealthy Residents After Zero-Star Hygiene Rating

An Italian restaurant in an affluent London neighborhood recently faced a devastating zero-star hygiene rating just weeks before shutting down.

Marco Claudio Valente, the owner of Don Ciccio in Highgate, publicly criticized local residents for their lack of support.

In a final message posted on the restaurant’s website, Valente expressed his frustration, stating that the community had never supported the establishment, not even once.

He claimed that the restaurant’s closure was not due to poor food or bad reviews, but rather because potential customers chose to order takeout from other places, leaving his staff feeling humiliated by empty dining rooms.

Despite receiving backlash for his comments, Valente stood by his words, asserting that it is impossible to please everyone.

Hygiene Issues Uncovered

Shortly before the restaurant’s closure, Camden Council inspectors discovered alarming hygiene violations during an inspection.

The report revealed the presence of mouse droppings, expired seafood, and improperly stored food items.

The inspection, conducted on August 8, highlighted the unsanitary conditions in the kitchen of Don Ciccio.

Mouse droppings were found throughout the kitchen, near the pizza oven, behind coolers, and even in the changing room.

Additionally, inspectors noted the presence of nesting materials for pests in staff lockers and the upstairs food storage area.

Outdated food items, including frozen pasta, sausages, salmon, and prawns, were found in the refrigerator.

A jar of mayonnaise was discovered under raw meat, and an opened packet of breadcrumbs was located near the droppings.

Management and Operational Concerns

The inspection report also criticized the restaurant’s management structure, indicating that there was essentially only one person responsible for overseeing operations.

This lack of management capacity hindered the restaurant’s ability to meet health and safety regulations.

Inspectors found moldy strawberries in the kitchen and noted that many food items, including mussels and cured meats, were unlabelled, making it impossible to track their freshness.

Cross-contamination was a significant concern, with raw meat stored above cream cans and pipes.

The refrigerator near the entrance was recorded at 17C, well above the legal limit of 8C.

Final Farewell from Don Ciccio

In a heartfelt farewell message, Valente announced the closure of Don Ciccio, which had been in operation for six years since its opening in October 2019.

He expressed disappointment over the lack of customers, despite being recognized as a Travellers’ Choice restaurant on Tripadvisor for three consecutive years.

Valente reflected on the restaurant’s journey, stating that it was not enough to have high ratings or positive reviews.

He thanked his staff for their dedication and for enduring the embarrassment of empty dining rooms during service.

In his message, Valente addressed the community directly, expressing gratitude for their indifference.

He lamented that despite serving the community during the pandemic, many residents did not return once restrictions were lifted.

Acknowledging the Challenges

Valente’s farewell included a critique of the local community, stating that Don Ciccio was likely the first Italian restaurant to close not due to poor food or service but because of the indifference of its neighbors.

He reminded those who doubted the restaurant’s longevity that they were only off by nearly six years.

Despite the challenges, Valente expressed pride in serving a diverse clientele, including families and individuals from various backgrounds.

He concluded his message with a poignant farewell, suggesting that the closure might be the beginning of a storm rather than just a drop in the bucket.

Hygiene Violations Not a New Issue

The hygiene report indicated that the issues found at Don Ciccio were not isolated incidents but rather ongoing problems that had previously been noted without resolution.

The restaurant was ultimately given a zero-star rating, indicating that urgent improvements were necessary.

Just two months later, the establishment closed its doors for good.

During its operation, Don Ciccio offered traditional Italian dishes, including pizzas priced up to £18 and risottos at £26.

Despite being named a Travellers’ Choice restaurant on Tripadvisor between 2023 and 2025, the reality of the restaurant’s situation was often starkly different.

Locals frequently observed empty tables and a lack of customers, particularly in a neighborhood known for its wealthy residents.

Owner’s Perspective

After leaving for Rome, Valente spoke to the media about his experience in Highgate.

He stated that despite trying everything possible to attract customers, the restaurant was forced to close not due to negative reviews or high prices but because of the indifference of the community.

Valente defended his remarks, emphasizing that they accurately reflected his experience.

He acknowledged that while there were some loyal customers, the overall situation was disheartening.

Valente described days when the restaurant generated only £40 to £45 in total revenue, which he found humiliating.

The Community’s Role

Valente expressed disappointment that the affluent community did not support the restaurant more actively.

He clarified that his criticism was not directed at the residents themselves but rather at the lack of patronage.

Despite being located in a wealthy area, the restaurant struggled to attract enough customers to sustain its operations.

Valente emphasized that an Italian restaurant does not require only wealthy patrons; it needs a steady flow of customers from all backgrounds.

Future Plans

Currently in Italy, Valente is contemplating his next steps but remains uncertain about opening another restaurant in the near future.

He expressed a deep passion for hospitality and the culinary arts, indicating that he may consider returning to the restaurant business if the right opportunity arises.

Valente remains hopeful that London will return to its vibrant past, which could create a more favorable environment for restaurants like Don Ciccio.

In his reflections, he noted that despite the challenges faced, his passion for food and hospitality could eventually lead him back to the industry.

Conclusion

The story of Don Ciccio serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges faced by restaurants in competitive markets.

While Valente’s criticisms of the local community may have resonated with some, the underlying issues of hygiene and management ultimately led to the restaurant’s downfall.

As the culinary landscape continues to evolve, the experiences of Don Ciccio highlight the importance of community support and maintaining high standards in the food industry.

The closure of this Italian eatery leaves a void in the neighborhood, prompting reflections on the role of local businesses and the expectations of affluent communities.