Roma Pizza, located in Red Hook, closed its doors on June 30 after 14 years in business. Chef Gianni DeLuca confirmed plans to relocate downtown this fall.

Roma Pizza was a fixture on Van Brunt Street since opening in 2010. The pizzeria earned local attention for its thin-crust pies and steady service. Customers and neighbors expressed disappointment as word spread of its impending closure in late June.

Chef Gianni DeLuca, who co-founded Roma Pizza, cited expiring lease terms as the primary reason for closing the Red Hook location. DeLuca stated that rising operating costs and negotiations with the landlord made renewal unfeasible. Staff were notified of the closure in early June.

DeLuca confirmed he will launch a new venture at 112 First Avenue in the East Village. The upcoming pizzeria is expected to open in October and will focus on Roman-style pizza. Several Roma Pizza staff members have been offered positions at the new site.

The closure marks the latest in a series of long-running businesses shutting down in Red Hook. Residents and other local proprietors have cited increased rents and shifting demographics as contributing factors affecting the neighborhood’s independent restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Roma Pizza close?

Roma Pizza closed after 14 years due to the expiration of its lease and an inability to reach a new agreement with the landlord. Chef Gianni DeLuca also cited increased expenses as making continued operations unsustainable. The restaurant’s last day was June 30, 2024.

Will Chef Gianni DeLuca open another restaurant?

Chef Gianni DeLuca plans to open a new pizzeria at 112 First Avenue in the East Village. The new location is scheduled to open in October 2024 and will feature Roman-style pizza, similar to the original Roma Pizza menu. Some former staff will join the new venture.

What happens to the old Roma Pizza space in Red Hook?

The future of the Van Brunt Street space previously occupied by Roma Pizza is currently unclear. The landlord has not announced a new tenant. Local residents await updates on what may take Roma Pizza’s place in the coming months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did Roma Pizza in Red Hook close?

Roma Pizza closed after 14 years due to the expiration of its lease and the inability to reach a new agreement with the landlord, along with increased operating expenses.

When did Roma Pizza in Red Hook shut down?

Roma Pizza ceased operations on June 30, 2024.

Is Chef Gianni DeLuca opening a new restaurant after Roma Pizza closed?

Chef Gianni DeLuca will open a new pizzeria at 112 First Avenue in the East Village, expected to launch in October 2024.

What type of pizza will be served at Chef Gianni DeLuca’s new East Village pizzeria?

The new pizzeria will focus on Roman-style pizza, similar to the original Roma Pizza menu.

What will happen to the former Roma Pizza location on Van Brunt Street?

The future of the Van Brunt Street space is currently unclear, as the landlord has not announced a new tenant.

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