Binghamton, NY – Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo joined the owners and operators of Little Venice to announce that the restaurant has been placed on the NYS Historic Business Preservation Registry (HBPR). To become a part of the Registry, businesses in operation for at least 50 years must be nominated by a state elected official. As part of the designation on the HBPR, the restaurant is featured on the program’s interactive online map and will display an official registry certificate and window decal. The Registry is administered by the NYS Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation.

Having first opened in a converted house on Court Street in 1946, Little Venice has gone through multiple iterations over the years. It wasn’t until 1969 that they found their permanent home at 111 Chenango Street in Binghamton, where the restaurant has become a staple amongst the downtown dining options. Today, Romeo and Bernadette Lisio and children Piero Lisio and Gina Minichino are the owners and operators of the restaurant.

The family restaurant has been known for their original sweet tomato sauce, hot pies, and meat logs since the restaurant opened over 75 years ago. Their tomato sauce and homemade pasta are so famous that they are now sold in over 100 retail locations as well as online, shipped right from the restaurant. Another unique feature is the over 150 original signed paintings from the 19^th, 20^th, and 21^st centuries currently on display at the restaurant, curated by Rocco “Rocky” Carulli.

Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo said, “I was thrilled to nominate Little Venice for this prestigious designation. As Binghamton’s oldest Italian eatery, this designation serves as a long overdue recognition of their sustained contribution to the community and impact on local culture and history. Being placed on the Historic Business Registry underscores how valuable the restaurant really is to our community.”

Piero Lisio, Co-Owner, Little Venice Restaurant, said "We would like to thank Assemblywoman Lupardo for this great honor. We would also like to thank our loyal patrons for all their support. Being a part of the Binghamton small business community for 78 years is something we are truly proud of."