BREAKING: Tonios is Closed?

DAMMIT.

Based on the Yelp reviews, I know lots of you btchz were not Tonios fans (306 7th Ave between 7th and 8th streets), however, I loved the shit out of the place! And since we moved to Park Slope 5 years ago, we would regularly hit up this joint whenever we were in the mood for some old school Italian. Well no more.

From the Tonio's website:

"The Gaita's thank all of our patrons for their support of Tonio's Restaurant. Sadly, after 19 years, Tonio has retired and closed his restaurant!! :("

We called to get confirmation from the restaurant that they were actually closed (as the site seems to indicate that this shit is a done deal), and their phone number went straight to a fax machine.

A tipster informed us that Tonio's health has been failing of late, and that this contributed to his decision to shut the place down.

Anyone else have additional scoop?

UPDATE: Just heard from our pal @whimsyandspice that the rumor is the place is turning into a Dunkin Donuts.