<div class="tldr">Fortunato Brothers Bakery in Williamsburg will close on June 16 after 48 years. The bakery will host a final bake sale that day.</div>
<ul class="key-facts">
<li>Fortunato Brothers Bakery opened in 1976.</li>
<li>The final bake sale takes place Sunday, June 16, 2024.</li>
<li>The bakery is located at 289 Manhattan Avenue in Brooklyn.</li>
</ul>
Fortunato Brothers Bakery has been a fixture in Williamsburg since 1976. The shop, known for its Italian pastries, cannoli, and cakes, will shut its doors permanently on June 16. Owners announced the closure in a statement posted to the bakery's front window and social media accounts on June 1.
The bakery cited rising costs and changes in the neighborhood as factors in the decision. Co-owner Mario Fortunato said that increased rent and ingredients prices made continued operation unsustainable. Fortunato Brothers has seen decades of demographic shifts in Williamsburg, serving long-time residents as well as newer arrivals.
The final bake sale on June 16 will offer remaining inventory, including signature biscotti, sfogliatelle, and cookies. Staff expect a large turnout from regulars and former employees. The owners invited the community to visit one last time before the store's closure.
<h2>Frequently Asked Questions</h2>
<h2>When is Fortunato Brothers Bakery closing?</h2>
<p>Fortunato Brothers Bakery will officially close on Sunday, June 16, 2024. The final day of business will feature a bake sale with pastries and baked goods from remaining inventory.</p>
<h2>Why is the bakery shutting down?</h2>
<p>The owners cited rising rent, increased costs of ingredients, and shifting neighborhood demographics as key reasons for the closure. These factors made it difficult to continue operations profitably.</p>
<h2>Will the bakery relocate or reopen elsewhere?</h2>
<p>The owners have not announced plans to reopen or relocate the bakery. As of now, June 16 will mark the final day for Fortunato Brothers at the original Manhattan Avenue location.</p>