Italia Bakery storefront closes down after more than four decades in business

Italia Bakery — an Erie Street landmark since 1974 — has shut down its storefront operation.

But the bakery in the rear of the operation continues to thrive, supplying local stores, restaurants and banquet halls.

The business founded by its patriarch Pietro “Peter” Mancini is in the midst of change within the family after he died in January at the age of 91.

The store at the front of the building in the 500 block of Erie Street East and bakery in the rear are two separate business operations, confirmed a family member who issued a brief statement.

“The current owner is hanging up her apron and retiring after 45 years of business,” said Dino Villalta, a family member who helped operate the bakery.

“We would like to thank all our customers for their valued patronage.”

But signs posted on the front of the store indicate the lease for the store was terminated for nonpayment of rent.

Another sign dated Sept. 5 indicates the tenant removed equipment necessary for the store to function and may again reopen once officials are “able to restore the facility to its original state.”

“We are committed to reopening under new management by the Mancini family as soon possible,” said the sign authored by a family member, Tessa Mancini.

The sign lists more than a dozen locations where Italia Bakery’s bread products can still be purchased across Windsor, including La Stella Market, Joseph’s Produce, Freshco, Remark Farms and Fred’s Farm Fresh.