Andrew and Steves Cafe in Astoria has closed after 94 years of operation.

The owners of the cafe, which is located at 1196 Marine Drive, made the decision Sunday.

Its been an ongoing discussion for quite some time, said co-owner Harriet Antonious son, Harry Antoniou. 

It was a very difficult decision, said Harriet Antoniou and co-owner Gus Phillipakis in a statement. But health issues, the ages of the partners and the lack of interest from other family members to be involved with the business contributed to the closure, they said.

Antoniou is 81 and Phillipakis is 83. The cafe has been family-owned since 1916.

Weve been getting a lot of calls from people, Harry Antoniou said. People have been very understanding and supportive.

The cafe was known for its veal cutlets, handmade pies and dressings, he said. 

The closure of the cafe also signals the closure of the bar next door, the Chart Room.

The family owns the building that houses both the bar and the cafe. There are no plans for the spaces yet, but Harry Antoniou said the family will probably try to sell the building.

The cafe employed about 15 people, some of whom had been with the cafe for a while, he said.

In their statement, Harriet Antoniou and Phillipakis thanked their customers and employees for years of patronage and service.

Thats part of what made the decision so difficult: that loyalty, Harry Antoniou said.