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Historic Mansion That Once Housed Mayor LaGuardia Looking for New Tenant

By Katie Honan | July 13, 2016 8:47am
 Vivaldi Ristorante opened inside the Parks Department-owned home in 2013.
Vivaldi Ristorante opened inside the Parks Department-owned home in 2013.
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DNAinfo/Katie Honan

BAYSIDE — The Parks Department is looking for a new operator of a waterfront mansion that was once home to a mayor and silent film star after it is "mutually" parting ways with the current tenant.

Vivaldi Ristorante opened in the historic home at 201-10 Cross Island Pkwy. in 2013 after two other restaurants closed within a few years at the site. It was once home to film star Rudolph Valentino and former Mayor Fiorella LaGuardia. 

The owners, the Makkos Group, were concerned about the restaurant's "long term financial viability," according to the Parks Department.

"While they increased their annual revenues and entered into multiple payment plans with Parks, they expressed a desire to terminate the current agreement," spokeswoman Meghan Lalor said. 

An owner of Vivaldi could not be reached for comment. They operate two other catering halls in the city: Terrace on the Park in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park and Battery Gardens in Battery Park. 

It's not clear when the restaurant, which also hosts private parties and events, will officially close.

The Parks Department released a request for proposal last week, seeking a new tenant for a long-term lease.

A new operator can renovate or expand the mansion to "maximize revenue," they wrote.

It was completely renovated six years ago, after former tenant Caffe on the Green was booted following a city investigation.