Boston’s century-old No Name Restaurant has closed

BOSTON — A South Boston restaurant that had been in business for more than a century has closed its doors.

The No Name Restaurant on Boston’s Fish Pier made the announcement just before 10 p.m. Monday in a Facebook post.

“After over 100 years, we had to make the difficult decision to close the No Name Restaurant,” the post reads. “We want to thank our generations of customers for all the years of loyal patronage, and for helping make the No Name a landmark location.

“To our employees, many of whom have been with us for decades, we cannot thank you enough. We thank you for your tireless dedication and hard-working service.

“It has been an honor to be part of your celebrations and your everyday lives for so many years. We will miss you all.” 

A sign posted on the door of the restaurant earlier Monday said the establishment was closed for the day due to a management meeting.

Employees, however, told NewsCenter 5 that the restaurant was closing for good.

“I got a phone call at 6:30 (this morning) telling me to come in, and they’ll pay us for this week. That’s all I know,” said an employee who has worked at No Name for 30 years.

No Name Restaurant dates back to 1917, and according to its Facebook page, it is the oldest restaurant in Boston under the same management — the Contos family.

WCVB’s Chronicle featured No Name Restaurant earlier this year. It’s a favorite spot of Boston comedian Lenny Clarke.

“This restaurant was highly recommended by a lot of tour guides and friends who have said it’s one of the most famous restaurants with history,” said Tanya Nedic, who is visiting Boston from Chicago. “This was the top restaurant on our list, and we’re really disappointed that it’s closed.”

NewsCenter 5 confirmed that No Name Restaurant Inc. filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy on Monday.

In the paperwork, the restaurant cited 32 creditors, many of whom appear to be suppliers, being owed $422,000. The payroll account was listed as having no money and the operating account was listed with only $20,000 remaining.

The paperwork does indicate that the restaurant was able to pay the staff all the money that was owed to them, as the debtor withdrew $9,900 and paid the final payroll in cash.