Legendary New Jersey pizzeria returns after tax shutdown, but uncertainty looms.
DeLorenzo’s Pizza of Hamilton, an 86-year-old institution in the Garden State, reopened its doors on April 1 after being shuttered by state officials for unpaid taxes on March 11. The beloved pizzeria, known for its roots stretching back to 1938 in Trenton, faced a dramatic pause when the building at 147 Sloan Ave. was seized for “failure to comply with New Jersey tax laws.”
Owner Rick DeLorenzo Jr. managed to gather roughly $20,000—thanks to more than $14,000 from a GoFundMe and additional loans from friends—to pay off critical debts. “I have customers all over the country, and when they saw I was in trouble, they stepped in to help,” DeLorenzo shared.
Why this long-standing local icon nearly shut down for good this spring
It’s no secret that taxes can bring surprises. But who would have guessed this pizzeria’s lengthy history could be momentarily sidelined by unpaid bills? DeLorenzo’s had to halt operations while Rick rushed to secure the necessary funds. Although he’s now thrilled to resume tossing dough, lingering financial concerns remain. The pizzeria’s overhead costs are currently too high, and Rick is exploring options to ensure that the doors stay open.
Have you ever wondered what would happen to your favorite neighborhood spot if a sudden state intervention took place? In DeLorenzo’s case, local customers and faraway fans alike rallied to its rescue, highlighting the deep affection people hold for these legendary pies.
Below is a brief timeline of key events:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| March 11 | State seizes building for unpaid taxes |
| March 28 | Reopening plan announced on Facebook |
| April 1 | DeLorenzo’s Pizza reopens after fundraising |
The shop’s legacy resonates beyond Hamilton. Patrons fondly remember the original location in Trenton, and many credit the restaurant’s old-school recipes for making it a cornerstone of New Jersey’s pizza culture.
How joint-use with a cannabis dispensary could shape this pizzeria’s future in Hamilton
A cannabis dispensary application was approved before the tax issue unfolded, proposing a shared building with DeLorenzo’s. “I can’t afford to stay there,” Rick admitted, underscoring the steep overhead. By potentially splitting operational costs with Vision Cannabis, the pizzeria hopes to remain at its current location. Otherwise, it may move elsewhere in Hamilton Township. Could this partnership be the lifeline that preserves this historic spot?
In the meantime, the pizzeria continues to serve its iconic thin-crust pies. DeLorenzo’s loyal clientele appreciates the return of a family-run place that has been perfecting pizza for nearly nine decades.
Here are some key points to remember:
- DeLorenzo’s has overcome financial hurdles, but future stability relies on reducing costs.
- Locals and longtime supporters contributed significantly through crowdfunding.
- A shared-use plan with a dispensary is pending approval to help with overhead.
No matter what happens next, one thing is certain: New Jersey pizza enthusiasts are relieved to see DeLorenzo’s back in action. Rick, who has been making pizzas for 50 years, says he felt lost without his craft. Now, he hopes to continue serving slices that have delighted generations.