Geneva's Wildwood restaurant closes permanently due to COVID-19 restrictions

After 14 years in business, the upscale Wildwood restaurant in downtown Geneva has permanently closed due to the financial impact of the coronavirus pandemic.

The stay-at-home restrictions placed on dine-in services "have turned an already tough competitive environment into an uncertain and likely losing proposition," owner Patrick Neary said in a notice on the restaurant's website Friday, May 15. "Large, fine dining establishments that rent their premises (as Wildwood) are particularly at risk of survival."

Located within the Dodson Place development at 477 S. Third St., the independently owned restaurant has become a local favorite for customers throughout Geneva and beyond, operators said. Known for its steak, seafood and pasta, Wildwood also has hosted private events, including weddings, rehearsal dinners, bridal and baby showers and communions.

"There are just too many memories to share in a short communication, and honestly it's a bit painful at the moment to go through that process," Neary said. "Our day-to-day operations resulted in hundreds of new personal acquaintances and, importantly, some lasting deep friendships."

The restaurant's closure is effective immediately, his notice says. He urged customers to continue supporting local restaurants and merchants through the COVID-19 health crisis.