YORKVILLE — After more than three decades, a popular neighborhood pizzeria has shuttered, according to signs posted at the restaurant.
The Original Zesty's, popular among area residents for its fast-casual Italian fare, has closed its doors at 1693 Third Ave., near East 95th Street, citing an end to its lease.
"Dear loyal and valued customers. Thank you very much for a wonderful 32 years. It's been great being your favorite pizza shop and its been a pleasure serving you over the years," a sign posted outside the restaurant reads. "Due to the termination of our lease and non-renewal of it, the original zesty's will be closed for business at this location."
The owner plans on reopening soon, the sign continued.
"We are however finalizing a deal at a very nearby location," the note continued. "Please stay tuned as I will update everyone once a new contract has been signed."
It's unclear whether a new site has been selected, but it does not appear that any nearby vacancies will soon be occupied by Zesty's, which neighbors said seemed to have closed at approximately a month ago, if not somewhat longer.
According to The Real Deal, Extell Development has been buying up buildings on Third Avenue between East 94th and 95th streets — including where Zesty's was formerly located — and has recently acquired almost the entire block.
Zesty's fans have since taken to the Internet to lament the loss of the neighborhood institution.
"Took the 6 train home last week, walked the extra 2 blocks out of my way to Zestys anticipating the yumminess of their white slice, only to see the gates locked and a sign on the window that said they're closed because their lease wasn't renewed....," wrote Yelp user Yoshi K. "NO ZESTYS?!!!!!! Never even knew they'd been open for 32 years!"
"COME BACK ZESTYS!" the writer continued. "You're a neighborhood staple."
"Sadly, my neighborhood pizzeria has closed," wrote another user, GarGuPi L. "It's sad to see the workers losing jobs and let's pray not another froyo chain store replace this spot."
