Italian-Romanian Is The New Chinese-Mexican

La Sorrentina II, the pizzeria that previously occupied this storefront at 1652 Sheepshead Bay Road, has finally closed down after one of the longest, most drawn out restaurant deaths in history. Opening in its place is Taste Of Romania’s Europa Bistro, an Italian and Eastern European eatery.

Not to be confused with the overpriced Manhattan soup-and-sandwich chain, Europa Cafe, this bistro will offer “home smoked delicacy.” We’re not sure what that means or why foods may be better if smoked at home and not elsewhere. We’re similarly unsure how Romanian food and Italian food come together. Our guess? The pizza ovens were left over from the previous business, so the new owners figured, “Hey, why not?”

Or perhaps they’re waiting for a German restaurant to open next door so they can declare war on Glechik across the street.