I just read on JMB's Everything St. Maarten that Cugini's Restaurant is closing. Sad News:

"..... Cugini, which opened last year and became immensely busy for several months, has now closed. Its driving force is Sam Runza, who discovered in March that he had cancer and had to leave for treatment in Toronto. He has been there ever since but hopes to return to the island soon. In the meantime, his cousin Tony, at Sam's urging, has shut down the restaurant. Cugini — cousins in Italian — was operated by the two cousins along with Francesca, Sam's wife of many years. We liked the restaurant a lot and many of you visited it at our urging. Sam's focus now is totally on getting well soon."

Thanks Jim for the news.

Sad. We'll keep Sam in our thoughts.

Thanks for your post, George - and so very sorry to learn of the reason for their closing. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" /> <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/handshake.gif" alt="" />

So very sorry to hear that, I had heard he was in Toronto for health reasons, but hoping it wouldn't be too bad. He is such a great guy, I hope he can return to the island soon. I don't know if he would ever do a restaurant again, but he needs to be constantly doing something. Hoping for the best, and I will miss that restaurant.

Dined there a couple of times last February. Met the owners and talked to them. Sad to hear about Sam. He is in our prayers.

Very sad. We hope Sam's health improves. We enjoyed his restaurant in Marigot and did go to the new location on our last visit. He is a very nice person and we enjoyed talking with him and his wife. We wish them luck!!!

We will miss his restaurant very much, one of "go to" places!

All the best to Sam and a speedy recovery.

OK..now I'm confused. Stopped by Cugini's the other night and yes the gate was closed but all the furnishings were still inside. I spoke to a gentleman in the little place right next door. He used to work for Cugini's and told me that they (Cugini's) were closed for the month of September and not permanently.
I certainly hope he is right. I guess time will tell.
Keeping Sam (and Francesca) in my thoughts and prayers. Wishing him a speedy recovery.

I was told by a source very close to Sam that it was permanent. I would be ecstatic if that is wrong!