KEENE, N.H. (MyKeeneNow) After returning to the Keene restaurant scene earlier this year, the owners of Nicola’s are preparing to step away from the business.

Nicola and Cheryl Bencivenga announced that they have sold the restaurant at 11 Central Square to two local residents, who plan to open a new restaurant in the space.

The Bencivengas said their final day of operation will be Wednesday, Sept. 30. Nicola’s will continue its regular Wednesday-through-Saturday schedule from 5 to 9 p.m. through its closing date.

The announcement marks the end of another chapter for the Bencivengas, who previously operated Nicola’s Trattoria in Keene for more than two decades before returning to the downtown restaurant scene with Nicola’s earlier this year.

In announcing their retirement, the owners thanked customers from Keene and throughout New England for their support.

The Bencivengas said they are excited about the restaurant’s next chapter under its new local ownership.