Another longtime Arizona pizza restaurant is preparing to close after years serving loyal customers in the Valley, adding to the growing list of independent eateries disappearing across the state.
The family-owned restaurant announced it was being forced to permanently shut down on May 30, sparking disappointment from longtime customers who say the spot became a local tradition for pizza nights, team dinners, and family gatherings.
Beloved pizza restaurant forced out after 52 years
Raffaeles Pizza first opened in 1974 and moved into its current Phoenix location in 1978. The family-owned restaurant became known for its New York-style and Sicilian pizzas, stromboli, wings, and neighborhood atmosphere.
Owner Billy Burns told local media he learned late last year that the property had been sold. In March, he was reportedly given 120 days to vacate the building. City records show demolition and redevelopment plans have already been submitted for the site.
“It’s kind of hard to face the facts of having to shut down a business,” Burns told Phoenix New Times. “Not because I failed as a businessman, because I didn’t have a choice.”
Customers react to closure news
The closure announcement sparked an emotional response online from longtime customers, many of whom shared memories of eating at the restaurant for decades.
Some described Raffaeles as a neighborhood institution where generations of families gathered for pizza nights, sports celebrations, and casual dinners. Others said the restaurant represented one of the few remaining old-school pizza spots in the area.
One location will remain open
While the original Phoenix restaurant is closing, Raffaeles’ newer Glendale location will remain open.
Burns said some employees and memorabilia from the original restaurant will move to the Glendale store, allowing part of the restaurant’s legacy to continue even after the longtime Phoenix location disappears.
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