The owner of a popular pizza shop in the Bay Area has surprised many by announcing the closure of his restaurant after more than a decade, opting instead to focus on frozen pizzas.
John Dursky, who runs San Francisco del Popolo Pizza, expressed his gratitude to the city and patrons who’ve supported him over the years. After careful thought, he decided that closing the restaurant following Friday night’s service was the right choice.
Dursky shared more about his decision in a message he posted on social media.
The pizzeria, located at 855 Bush St., isn’t shutting down due to typical challenges like California’s expensive living costs. Instead, the owner aims to transform public perceptions of frozen pizza.
Dursky began his journey in 2012, crafting Neapolitan-style pizza from a food truck built from a glass shipping container. A few years later, he transitioned to a physical store.
“In 2014, after years of serving pizza from my truck, opening a restaurant felt like the natural next step. I wanted to make a simple yet unique pizza, sharing it with a broader audience,” Dursky noted.
He mentioned, “I really had no clue what I was doing or what would happen, but looking back, it’s gratifying to see it all unfold and to know people enjoyed it.” He also informed that the last day for pizza at his restaurant will be Friday, May 8.
After that, customers can find their beloved Del Popolo pizza in local grocery store freezer sections.
“While this marks the end of Del Popolo as a brick-and-mortar establishment, we’re thrilled to launch a new phase focusing on frozen sourdough pizza,” his message conveyed.
Dursky aims to reshape how frozen pizza is perceived and intends to expand upon the business’s previous successes.
His unique sourdough twist on traditional pizza dough has gained multiple accolades and was recognized in the San Francisco Chronicle’s T magazine.
During the pandemic, the owners began selling frozen pizzas, and now these offerings are available in over 100 grocery stores across California, Nevada, and Arizona.
He mentioned that scaling up for nationwide distribution would necessitate a larger facility and more resources, hinting at potential relocation and investor support.
Dursky shared it’s been tough saying farewell to familiar faces that have frequented his shop.
“I’m feeling a mix of sadness and excitement. This place has meant so much to me,” he reflected.
In his social media letter, he expressed appreciation for guests who traveled from afar, filled the dining space, and contributed to countless memories.
He also acknowledged the vital support from neighbors, fellow industry members, his staff, and the growers who helped him produce quality pizza.
The local newspaper has reached out to the pizza shop for additional comments.
