Farewell to Via Mare’s original Greenbelt branch

Via Mare, a beloved establishment nestled in Greenbelt 1 mall in Makati City, will bid goodbye as it prepares to close its doors by the month's end, on 31 March.

In a heartfelt Facebook announcement, Via Mare expressed that the closure comes as a result of the "impending demolition of the iconic Greenbelt 1 building".

"This location holds a special place in our hearts as the birthplace of the first Cafe Via Mare. Since the 80s, it has been a beacon of Filipino culinary excellence, pioneering the concept of a truly Filipino café and offering beloved dishes like Bibingka, Puto-Bumbong, Pancit Luglog, and Dinuguan," the Facebook post read.

"Saying farewell to this chapter fills us with profound sadness. Its walls bear witness to laughter, conversations, and shared moments of thousands who have dined within," it added.

Many netizens are sharing sentiments on social media and posting their throwback photos of the cherished restaurant.

Among them, one post stood out.

"Stepping into Via Mare Greenbelt fills me with bittersweet nostalgia, knowing this visit is the last. This place isn't just a restaurant; it's a treasure trove of childhood memories," Chuck Gutierrez, vice president for cinema at Voyage Studios, said in a Facebook post.

"The news of its closure next week weighs heavy on my heart, yet amidst the sadness, I find comfort in knowing that the happiness I've known within these walls will live on, a timeless melody in the symphony of my memories," he added.

Despite this emotional transition, there is a glimmer of hope for Via Mare's loyal patrons.

The branch will relocate to its new home at Greenbelt 5 mall, with the date of the transfer to be announced soon.