Arrested Restaurant Owner Breaks Silence: Reports
Gina Luari, a restaurant owner from West Hartford, is addressing the fallout from her recent arrest. Luari is known for owning popular establishments called “The Place 2 Be,” where patrons enjoy a variety of dishes.
Details of the Arrest
On September 17, Luari, aged 33, was arrested by East Hartford police. She faced charges of issuing a bad check and second-degree larceny. Reports indicate that Luari wrote a check to Restaurant Equipment Paradise for $10,821.66, intending to purchase restaurant supplies. However, the check bounced because it was drawn from a closed account.
Luari’s Explanation
In interviews with WTNH News 8 and NBC Connecticut, Luari described her arrest as one of the worst moments of her life. She emphasized that her actions stemmed from a misunderstanding. Luari explained, “The bank closed the account because we were closed for six months, so there was no activity.”
Impact on The Place 2 Be Restaurants
Luari’s legal troubles have affected her restaurants significantly. Two of her locations have recently had their sales tax licenses suspended. This includes the establishments in West Hartford and Hartford.
- West Hartford location: 50 Memorial Road
- Hartford location: 5 Constitution Plaza
- New Haven location: 338 Elm Street
Ongoing Challenges
Luari’s businesses have experienced financial difficulties, including eviction proceedings and civil lawsuits for unpaid rent. A December court filing sought eviction of her West Hartford location for non-payment, with an agreement in place to vacate by March 31, 2026. Additionally, a landlord complaint regarding her Hartford location has also been filed in 2023.
Future Plans for Luari
Despite these setbacks, Luari remains optimistic about her future. Currently, she is focused on revitalizing her three operational restaurants and is dedicated to “building them back better than ever.” Her menu continues to attract customers with favorites like brunch nachos, breakfast tacos, and various beverages.
Customers can still place orders online from her restaurants, ensuring that “The Place 2 Be” continues to serve the community during this challenging time. Luari expressed her commitment to resolving her issues, stating that she has “tried to make it right” regarding her financial obligations.
