East Village’s Pizzaiolo Shutters After 12 Years as Rent Rises

• Pizzaiolo opened in 2012 at 618 E 9th St in the East Village.
• The restaurant ceased operations on June 17, 2024.
• Owners cited rent increases as the primary reason for closing.

Pizzaiolo first opened its doors in 2012, offering wood-fired pizza and Italian fare in a small, brick-lined space. The restaurant became a neighborhood fixture over the past decade, serving residents and visitors on East 9th Street, between Avenue B and Avenue C.

The owners announced the closure in a statement posted to the restaurant’s window and shared on social media. They pointed to steady increases in commercial rent as an unsustainable burden. No mention was made of plans to relocate, reopen, or sell the business.

Rising rent has affected many independent restaurants in the East Village in recent years. Several neighboring establishments have closed or moved, citing similar pressures. Commercial rent for small retail spaces in Manhattan, especially in sought-after neighborhoods, continues to rise according to industry reports.

Neither the landlord nor representatives from Pizzaiolo have commented further about the future use of the space at 618 E 9th St. No new tenant has been announced.

Frequently Asked Questions

When did Pizzaiolo close and where was it located?

Pizzaiolo closed on June 17, 2024. The restaurant was located at 618 East 9th Street, between Avenue B and Avenue C, in the East Village.

Why did Pizzaiolo close after 12 years?

The owners cited rent increases as the main reason for the closure. They stated that rising commercial rent in the neighborhood made it difficult to continue operations. No other factors were mentioned in the public closure notice.

Are there plans for Pizzaiolo to reopen or relocate?

No plans for reopening or relocating have been announced by the owners. There are no public indications that Pizzaiolo will return in another location, and the future of the East 9th Street space remains uncertain.