Angelo's Restaurant employees and customers reflect as closing date announced

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- Angelo's family restaurant has announced its closure in a few months, once its lease ends.

The South Bend staple has been around for nearly three decades on South Michigan Street.

For those who work at or dine at Angelo's regularly, this isn't just a spot to grab some quick breakfast or a bite for lunch, it became more like a place where you felt at home.

For 26 years, Angelo's was the place to be on the south side of South Bend if you're looking for good food and homey atmosphere.

Theresa Demetriou has worked here for decades in various roles and is now a manager.

She says Angelo's will forever be a part of her life.

"My favorite memory is basically all the customers, watching kids grow up, I actually met my husband here 23 years ago, I waited on him, that's where I get emotional but yeah that's the best memory," said Demetriou.

Theresa's daughter, niece, sister, and many other family members have worked at Angelo's over the years.

Her emotions spilled out during our interview as she reflects on a place that has become a home for her and her family.

"I'll miss the connections, the kids I watched as little ones, grow up and have their own children that I talk to this day. I'm going to miss it all," said Demetriou.

The love Theresa feels for her regulars is certainly mutual, with one weekly customer telling me she's the best part of his experience.

Another frequent Angelo's guest says the building's namesake, who founded the restaurant, left a legacy his family carries proudly.

"He was a special individual himself, he was a very caring person, an outgoing person, and he always made you feel welcomed, like not only was this his restaurant but this was home, and I really appreciated that," said Robert Herron, Jr, a regular at Angelo's.

"I started here as a waitress and then met him and took over basically running the front of the house, I'm the first thing people see when they come in, last thing they see before walking out so it's been pretty amazing," said Demetriou.

Angelo's will remain open until December 13, the last day of its lease.