A popular Satey Harbor cafe has decided to not renew its lease after being told its rent would more than double in 2025.
Bassano Cheesecake Cafe is right on Main Street in Safety Harbor. Cindy Bassano and her husband, Tom, know nearly every guest by name. They always make sure there’s room for their four-legged guests, too.
“Hi, Charlie! This is Charlie and John…Charlie is blind,” Bassano explained.
The Bassano’s have spent years planting roots right on Main St.
“She’s seen my wife since she was pregnant, and we’ve been taking Charlie out since she was two weeks old,” another long-time customer, Jake Chulla, said.
That’s why patrons were heartbroken after reading their post on social media announcing their closure. On top of other expenses, the Bassano’s said they just can’t afford to move forward.
“The landlords want more than double the rent, and there’s just no way for us to be able to afford that,” Bassano added.
“They’ve been a staple in this community for so many years… We come here maybe five times a week,” long-time customer John Duffy explained.