For generations of Philadelphians, one East Passyunk corner meant family dinners, celebrations, and classic red-sauce comfort food. Now, that chapter has closed as Marra’s Pizzeria officially shuts its doors after nearly a century in business.
A neighborhood institution comes to an end
Founded in 1927, Marra’s Pizzeria was widely considered the oldest pizzeria in Philadelphia. The family-run restaurant became a cornerstone of South Philly dining, known for its traditional Italian-American menu, old-school atmosphere, and deep roots in the community.
For decades, locals marked birthdays, graduations, and post-game meals inside its familiar dining room. In its final weeks before closing in late 2025, longtime customers returned for last visits, some sharing memories and photos as they said goodbye to a restaurant that had been around for generations.
Why the restaurant closed
Interestingly, the main reason for the closure is a bit unexpected: parking. “The biggest killer was parking,” said Mario D’Adamo Jr., the grandson of the pizzeria’s founders and brother of co-owner Robert D’Adamo. “Small restaurants can survive that; large places can’t,” referring to the large occupancy capacity of the restaurant.
In addition, rising operating costs, evolving dining habits, and the demands of maintaining a historic building all likely played a role. After nearly 100 continuous years, the family ultimately decided it was time to step away.
What’s planned for the East Passyunk space
The East Passyunk Avenue property has been sold and is expected to reopen as a new restaurant concept following renovations. While the cuisine will be different, the site will remain part of the neighborhood’s vibrant dining corridor…