Nicola’s to close Sept. 30 as Bencivengas retire, sell downtown Keene restaurant

Monday, September 14, 2026 at 11:00 PM

The couple said the restaurant at 11 Central Square has been sold to buyers who intend to open a new dining concept in the space.

The downtown Keene restaurant Nicola’s will soon change ownership after Nicola and Cheryl Bencivenga announced plans to retire and hand the business to two local residents.

The couple said the restaurant at 11 Central Square has been sold to buyers who intend to open a new dining concept in the space. Nicola’s will remain open on its normal Wednesday through Saturday schedule, serving from 5 to 9 p.m., until its final night on Wednesday, Sept. 30.

The closing brings to an end a long run for the Bencivengas in Keene’s restaurant community. Before relaunching Nicola’s earlier this year, they had spent more than 20 years operating Nicola’s Trattoria in the city.

In announcing the sale, the owners expressed gratitude to diners from Keene and across New England who supported the restaurant over the years. They also said they are looking forward to seeing the location continue under local ownership.