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Elmo Restaurant Closes After 25 Years, Chelsea Heartbroken

3/5/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Elmo Restaurant will close on March 13 after 25 years, as the building is sold for residential units.
Founder Bob Pontarelli announced the closure.
Elmo has served as a community hub for celebrations and gatherings, becoming a clubhouse for queer New Yorkers.
The closure is a loss for Chelsea, once the heart of Manhattan's gay community.
Patrons expressed heartbreak on social media, highlighting the restaurant's atmosphere and community role.

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Story summary

Elmo Restaurant will close on March 13 after 25 years, as the building is sold for residential units.
Founder Bob Pontarelli announced the closure.
Elmo has served as a community hub for celebrations and gatherings, becoming a clubhouse for queer New Yorkers.
The closure is a loss for Chelsea, once the heart of Manhattan's gay community.
Patrons expressed heartbreak on social media, highlighting the restaurant's atmosphere and community role.