Beloved Sunset Park eatery Johnny’s Pizzeria is set to close for good on Jan. 24 after 56 years in business.
John Miniaci Senior first opened the pizzeria alongside his wife Lilia in 1968 at 5805 Fifth Ave., and the family-run joint has been serving up premium slices to the local community ever since.
The Sunset Park favorite broke the news to customers on Thursday evening across its social media channels, thanking patrons for their loyalty over the years as the family prepare to retire from the pizza business.
“Although this decision has not come easy for us, we would like to be sincere in telling you that it is the right decision, as we are set to begin our retirements,” the Facebook post said, marking Wednesday, Jan. 24 as the last chance to purchase a pie.
“We would like to thank the many lifelong friends who have become like family to us from the community,” the post continued. “You have shown us kindness and loyalty over the almost 56 years that we have been in business. We would not have been able to be successful for so many years without your support and loyalty. It has truly been an honor to serve you all.”
The announcement quickly picked up traction online, with a flood of tributes pouring in for the Miniaci family and their staff who are considered part of the family.
“Thank you for all your hard work over the years. Your delicious pizza and sandwiches fed generations of people in the neighborhood,” one Facebook user lamented. “Most of all, thank you for being one of the fondest parts of our childhood memories. Your family will always be in our hearts. Congratulations on your retirement. We’ll miss you all.”
Another wrote: “Johnny’s will always and forever hold such a special place in my heart. Too many memories to begin to count. A piece of my childhood that will always bring a smile to my face! BEST SQUARES EVER! Enjoy your well deserved retirement!”
The Miniaci family said they will hold all the memories made over the years close within their hearts as they prepare to serve the last slices on Wednesday.
“As we move forward, it is our hope that God will bless the Sunset Park Community with peace, health and prosperity,” they added.
