On the eve of a final approval of a new large scale mixed use project, including a Harris Teeter, on the site of the legendary, 40-year Falls Church institution, Anthony’s Restaurant, Ted Akis, son of Anthony founders Tony and Faye Yiannarakis, issued a statement by email today announcing that the restaurant will be permanently closing at that location as of June 2.

The following is the text in full of the statement: “Dear Patrons and Friends of Anthony’s, It is with a heavy heart and sincere regret that we inform you that Anthony’s Restaurant will be permanently closing our location at 309 West Broad Street, Falls Church, Virginia. As a result of our lease expiring, our last day of operations will be June 2, 2013. Although we have yet to find a suitable new location, we continue our search and we hope to find a new home for Anthony’s in Falls Church. After 41 years of serving our patrons at this location, we would like to say THANK YOU for being a special part of our family and for all the wonderful memories. We will continue to serve the community at our Manassas location. Warmest regards, The Anthony’s Family.”