For over half a century, Villa Europa has been more than just a restaurant; it has been a cornerstone of the CSRA community. We’ve been there for countless family milestones: weddings, anniversaries, birthdays, and graduations. We’ve also stood beside you in moments of sickness, loss, and heartache. We have laughed, celebrated, and even shed tears alongside you because, over the years, our customers have become our family.
Our story began decades ago when Anneliese, a young German woman, was approached by a local Frenchman who owned Pizza Villa. He didn’t just ask her to help run his restaurant; he invited her to go into business with him. She brought her cherished German recipes to his already beloved Italian menu, creating something unique that brought the community together.
Over time, the restaurant evolved, first to Roman Villa, and then, in 1989, to Villa Europa when Anneliese’s daughter, Patricia Schaffer, stepped in as partner. Three generations of our family have proudly poured our hearts into welcoming you and serving the food you love.
Today, we are in a fight to protect that legacy.
Due to financial challenges beyond our control, we were forced to temporarily close, but we are determined to reopen. Villa Europa is our family’s legacy, and we believe it should end when we decide it’s time, not because circumstances forced us to walk away. We want the chance to serve the CSRA once more, to give our employees stability, and to close this chapter with dignity and gratitude.
This business doesn’t just support our family; it supports the families of our employees, many of whom have been with us for decades. They have shown up for you with smiles, good food, and warm hospitality, even on their hardest days. Now, they need your help.
We are asking for your support to:
• Cover the immediate costs to reopen our doors
• Support our loyal staff and the families who depend on this business
• Keep Villa Europa running until we can sell the property and buildings, ending our story the way it should be told
If Villa Europa has ever been part of your life, if you’ve celebrated here, leaned on us during sickness or loss, or simply felt at home here, please stand with us now. Your donation, no matter the size, will help us bridge this gap, keep people employed, and allow us to say goodbye on our terms.
From our hearts to yours, thank you for your love, your generosity, and your belief in what Villa Europa means to the CSRA. With your help, we will welcome you back through our doors soon for one more unforgettable chapter.
Even if you are unable to give monetary donations, please give of your stories and memories. You are why we are here and why we want to continue to be here until you have all had a chance to say goodbye.
With humble gratitude,
Your Villa Family
