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Don Ricardo’s in Babylon closed its doors for the last time on Thursday, June 13, as the owners ride off into the sunset and retirement.
On their last day, there was reportedly waits of upwards of two hours outside the popular Mexican/Spanish spot and a line out the door and spiraling down the sidewalk of patrons looking to get in one final meal at Don Ricardo’s.
“It's so hard to say good-bye...and after 30 years, this evening will be the last dinner served at Don Ricardo's Restaurant on E. Main Street,” officials in Babylon posted on Facebook. “As bittersweet as it will be, we wish Ricardo and Monica Benavides all the best in their retirement and thank them for the many memories, the laughs, the delicious food, great service and of course, 30 years serving families in Babylon Village and throughout Long Island!”
As the Benavides retire, a new fine-dining restaurant is expected to take its place.
“We are very emotional because we had so many beautiful memories here,” said a tearful Monica Benavides told GreaterBabylon. “Beautiful customers. Everybody knows us. We met so many good friends through this place. So right now we are very sad.”
“I remember when they first opened,” one patron said. “It was just the front part of the store. Tiny place great food great atmosphere. Sad to see it end. But nevertheless good luck in retirement and thanks for the memories.”
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