The very first Zaro's Bakery is being forced to close after 55 years in the Bronx due to high rent, the owner says.

Owner Michael Zaro says the landlord, Olshan Properites, notified them six weeks ago that their lease would not be renewed.

"After almost 60 years, this is the notice we get. No chance to bid on the space, no chance to try to keep business," says Zaro.

Many of the bakery's customers were notified about the closing when signs were placed on the front doors of the bakery. The signs thanked customers for all their years of service and gave a number to call if they were dissatisfied with the decision on not renewing the lease. 

In a statement, a senior vice president at Olshan Properties, says, "We have a long history of working with small store operators and entrepreneur tenants. Unfortunately, Zaro's Bakery could not meet the terms of renewal for this space. However, we are currently trying to work with them on another retail location at Parkchester."

Zaro's Bakery in Parkchester will be closing Monday, Dec. 28.