[EVG file photo]
Last June, we spotted a listing for 174-176 First Ave. At the time, the sale didn't mention anything about the status of longtime (since 1904) home of the great DeRobertis Pasticceria and Caffe at No. 176.
However, several EVG tipsters have forwarded updated real-estate listings … showing that the retail spaces in the basement and first floor of No. 176 will be delivered vacant once the buildings sell … (this may be news to the bakery, who say that they are not closing)
This listing, via a tipster, shows the current rent going for $4,000 a month for the bakery, with a projected monthly increase to $19,583.
DeRobertis has their in-house bakery in the basement.
The asking price is $12 million. (And at least one listing mentions that 4,162 square feet of air rights are available.)
City records show that the DeRobertis family has owned the buildings for 30-plus years.
Here's some history of the bakery via the DeRobertis website …
There are not many Pasticceria and Caffe's that can actually claim four continuous generations of friendly, family service. Our family tradition has survived through all types of conditions such as World War I, the Great Depression, World War II, the fabulous Fifties, the Vietnam War, the recession of the 70's, the boom of the 80's ... With hard work, a determination to provide the finest pastries, cakes and desserts and your patronage, we will continue into the 21st Century.
Read more about the history of DeRobertis on their website.
So this appears to be the family's decision to retire — they weren't pushed out. Regardless, go enjoy this East Village treasure while you still can.
[EVG file photo]
Updated: A DeRobertis family member said that closure was only "a rumor."
Previously on EV Grieve:
174-176 First Ave., home of DeRobertis Pasticceria and Caffe, is for sale