Megan and Ronald Gomez are moving their restaurant Sibaritas to the former Trattoria Rustica on McKay Street.

PITTSFIELD, Mass. — After three years in business on East Street, Sibaritas is moving downtown.

On Monday, the Licensing Board approved a new annual downtown all-alcohol restaurant license for the eatery's new location in the former Trattoria Rustica at 27 McKay St.

"I couldn't be happier for you," board member Jon Lifergren said. "I think it's a win-win move and I'm really excited about it."

Other board members agreed and Chair Thomas Campoli coined the East Street operation as a "wild success."

Megan and Ronald Gomez opened the Italian restaurant with a Chilean flare in 2021 in the former Elizabeth's Restaurant at 1264 East St. Sibaritas — a Spanish word that refers to a person who appreciates good food — makes almost everything in-house. The menu includes fresh pasta, flatbreads, salads, breakfast pastries, and coffee.

Together, the duo has more than 30 years of experience in the field.

"We're moving Sibaritas to the new location and then once we are up and rolling successfully there then we will go back and revisit what we're going to do with the [East Street] building, if we're going to open up a new restaurant or if we're going to sell the location. It's still up in the air," Megan Gomez explained when asked about the former location that they own.

There was an inquiry about the fate of the former liquor license, as they can either operate two establishments or transfer it to another one.

"Of those options that are being considered at this time, no decision has been made," attorney Michael Hashim said.

Trattoria Rustica had operated on McKay Street since 2001. It closed its doors in May due to a sudden heart failure that owner and chef Davide Manzo went through, according to a post on Facebook.  A GoFundMe was started to alleviate financial burdens while he rehabilitated, raising almost $10,000.

Last week, Manzo announced on the platform that due to the health scare, he is retiring.

"I just want to thank you, everybody, for all the support that I've had so far," Manzo said in a video post. "And I want to make sure that every one of you knows that I am well, getting better. It's going to be a long way but I am here."

Campoli is pleased with the new occupants.

"I think it's great that you're going into that space where Davide Manzo was," he said. "It's a wonderful space and he was quite a guy. He's still around but he's getting out of the business but it's a great location. I think it's perfect for you guys."

During the 10-minute meeting, the board also welcomed former city councilor Kevin Sherman to the board and approved an entertainment license for BB's Hot Spot at The Lantern, located at 455 North St.

Owner Ronny Brizan explained that they would like a small band to entertain people while they eat. The license was approved until 10 p.m.

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