Tweet Balzano’s Family Restaurant, a Bristol landmark for the past 60 years, has shut down after falling nearly $100,000 behind on town taxes.

Just before Thanksgiving, the Balzano family closed the restaurant for vacation, planning to re-open on Friday, Nov. 28. Although Tweet’s website posted its anticipated menu for its return, listing its pasta, seafood and Italian-style dishes, the following was posted on the front door: “Due to equipment repairs we have extended our vacation. We will re-open soon. Thank you!!”

Equipment repairs may not be the only problem. In order to come current with taxes, the restaurant would have to pay town of Bristol more than $91,000 in property tax and nearly $1,300 in tangible tax, according to Gary Marshall, deputy town treasurer.

“We are closed due to a tax issue,” restaurant owner John Balzano said in an e-mail message. “At this moment we are trying to rectify the problem and are working on fixing this situation. We hope to reopen in the very near future and when we do, we ask for support from the local community.”

Tweet's has survived a devastating fire, endured a recession and continued to help individuals and organizations with their charitable efforts despite increased competition in the restaurant industry, Mr. Balzano said. So, he and employees are hopeful the restaurant will reopen. When “Tweet’s,” as it’s commonly known, didn’t re-open as planned after Thanksgiving, speculation circulated across social media, with many people unaware of the tax issues the business had been facing.

Prior to its closing, the restaurant staff got together for a group photo that was posted on Tweet’s Facebook page. Eleven of the staff members stood together for the photo, and the accompanying messages was posted on the site:

“To all our dear friends, our valued co-workers, and clientele. Although we may not be together this holiday season rest assured that you are foremost in our hearts and prayers. We at Tweet's hope that we will be united soon. Wishing all a Joyous Holiday Season an a Prosperous New Year.”