Aurelio’s Pizza, the family-owned pizzeria, will officially close its South Loop location tomorrow. Just last week, it was reported that it was Pope Leo XIV’s favorite spot for pizza.
The South Loop location has been serving pizza for a decade. However, CEO Joe Aurelio, son of the founder, stated this decision was made to focus on new territories and expand the franchise.
Not the end of Aurelio’s
This closure does not mean the end of Aurelio’s; you can still dine at the suburban locations and even enjoy the Pope’s favorite—the pepperoni, affectionately referred to as “pope-eroni.”
In an interview with 9 News Australia, Joe Aurelio designated the table where Robert Prevost sat during his last visit as “The Official Pope’s Table,” complete with a presider’s chair from a local church at the original location in Homewood, Illinois.
In a Facebook post, Aurelio’s shared this message:
While we are wrapping up our final few days of operating our South Loop location, we are reminded of the heart of the community that comes together over an Aurelio’s Pizza. Being a part of the South Loop community has been so special, and we appreciate long-standing customers who have supported us over the years, especially for all the customers who have shared special notes of their fond memories and love for Aurelio’s.
Aurelio’s Pizza was founded in 1959 in Homewood, Illinois, and Aurelio’s began franchising in 1974.
When does Aurelio’s close?
The South Loop location will close on May 15.