Emanuel Manolakas, owner of Xristou Meneton, Inc.
I think what the city is trying to do is despicable. I moved my family here, spent hundreds of thousands buying Yiannis’ restaurant, and improving Downtown Morganton all with the approval and support of the City.
I’ve spent blood, sweat and tears to make Bella Vino a successful family friendly restaurant serving Italian and Greek food. I’ve spent hundreds of thousands dollars remodeling and making Bella Vino successful. I supported the Morganton area through COVID-19. After struggling through hard times,
we’re thankful that this community appreciates a family friendly restaurant serving Italian And Greek food made with love. Now, the City is trying to change contract terms, concoct a contract termination and smear our good
name. All people and business owners in this community should pay close attention to what the City is trying to do so the City won’t do the same thing to you. The City should be ashamed of itself. Although nobody wants to get sued by the City, if the City decides to sue, I’ll do everything I can to make sure Bella Vino is not shut down. Bella Vino will work with our legal counsel to prove that the lease was properly renewed, and prove through the courts that our beloved restaurant should remain a fixture for many years to come. We’re ready to feed our loyal customers and ask for your continued support. We have started a petition at the restaurant and online, and ask you to support Bella Vino and the rights of other honest business owners in Morganton.