LEONARDTOWN — Noli’s Italian Cucina, a family-owned eatery at 26005 Point Lookout Road known for scratch-made dishes from generational recipes, will permanently close its storefront on December 31, 2025, owners announced via social media, citing ongoing health challenges and a planned relocation out of state for family support.
The decision comes after four years of operation in its current Leonardtown location, where the restaurant built a following through authentic Italian fare including pastas, pizzas, calzones, wings, and desserts, alongside community events and private gatherings. Owners highlighted the difficulty of balancing significant medical needs with business demands, stating health must now take priority.
In the announcement posted to the restaurant’s Facebook page, owners shared: “It is with heavy hearts that we share that on December 31st 2025, we will be closing our storefront. This place holds such a special place in our hearts. Became a brand-new business owner, and got to work side-by-side with my own wife. We’ve gone through so many life chapters inside these walls….celebrations, struggles, growth, and countless memories. I poured my passion into this shop, and it has given me so much more in return.”
They continued: “From the amazing Italian festivals events to winning community choice best of the best Italian restaurant 4 consecutive years, to birthday parties and holiday parties, to seeing smiling faces walk in every day just looking for something delicious to brighten their day, this ride has been nothing but a blessing. So many of you have become lifelong friends… truly like family.”
The post detailed personal factors influencing the closure: “As many of you know or may not, I have been facing significant health challenges. Because of this ongoing medical needs, and with us planning to travel out of state to be near family for support, we had to make the incredibly difficult decision to close our doors. Health will now become our #1 goal. You have all been so supportive over the past 4 years but especially this last year/ year and a half struggling through several big life changes… sending prayers, love, and encouragement through every setback. Balancing medical expenses, business expenses, and the emotional stress of both has taken a huge toll, and closing the storefront is what’s best for our family right now.”
Owners concluded: “From the bottom of our hearts, THANK YOU for the love, support, and kindness you’ve shown over the last 4 years.”
Noli’s will maintain regular hours through the final day, allowing patrons to visit one last time. The restaurant, which emphasizes high-quality ingredients and a family-like atmosphere, has operated from the Point Lookout Road site since relocating and expanding several years ago, following an earlier presence in southern St. Mary’s County.
The Leonardtown location features a full menu of Italian classics prepared from family recipes passed down generations, with popular items including garlic knots, signature meatballs, shrimp carbonara, and a variety of pizzas noted for generous toppings and chew. The establishment also offers subs, salads, desserts, and catering options, often participating in local events like the California Farmers Market.
Community awards recognized Noli’s as a top Italian restaurant in reader polls for four straight years, reflecting consistent customer appreciation in a county with growing dining options along the Route 5 corridor. The space includes indoor seating, a small bar area, and takeout services, making it a venue for everything from casual meals to hosted parties.
Small family-run restaurants like Noli’s face unique pressures in St. Mary’s County, where operational costs, staffing in a rural-volunteer heavy area, and personal commitments intersect.
The closure adds to shifts in Leonardtown’s dining scene, a town center that blends historic charm with modern growth near the county seat and Breton Bay.
Noli’s encourages continued patronage in the remaining weeks, with reservations available online and standard hours posted on their site at noliscucina.com.
I’m going to miss Noli’s. I had so many nice dining experiences there. Of course family comes first. I wish the owners all the best.