Brooklyn, January 17, 2026
Gino’s Pizza, a beloved pizzeria in Downtown Brooklyn, has closed its doors following nearly 40 years of service. Established in 1986, the eatery ceased operations on January 16, 2026, due to a failure to negotiate a new lease with the building’s owner. Despite efforts to reach an agreement, the landlord’s steep demands led to the business’s closure, leaving many long-time customers in mourning. Gino’s Pizza’s closure underscores the challenges facing small businesses in rapidly developing areas, highlighting the community’s concerns over gentrification and the loss of local dining options.
Brooklyn, New York
Gino’s Pizza in Downtown Brooklyn has closed its doors after nearly 40 years of serving the community. The pizzeria, located at the corner of Flatbush Avenue and Bergen Street, ceased operations on January 16, 2026. Owner Naser Kucevic, who founded the establishment nearly four decades ago, cited an inability to reach a new lease agreement with the building’s owner as the primary reason for the closure. Despite offering $15,000 per month, the landlord demanded $25,000, leading to the decision to close the business. The closure has left long-time customers saddened, with many expressing their disappointment over the loss of a beloved local eatery.
Background of Gino’s Pizza
Established in 1986, Gino’s Pizza became a staple in Downtown Brooklyn, known for its classic New York-style pizza and welcoming atmosphere. Over the years, it garnered a loyal customer base, many of whom have been patrons since the early days. The pizzeria’s closure marks the end of an era for the local community, which has witnessed significant changes and developments in recent years.
Impact on the Community
The closure of Gino’s Pizza reflects broader challenges faced by small businesses in Brooklyn, particularly in areas undergoing rapid development and gentrification. The rising costs of rent and property values have made it increasingly difficult for long-standing establishments to remain viable. Local business owners and residents have expressed concerns about the loss of community-oriented businesses, fearing that such closures may lead to a more homogenized and less personal neighborhood experience.
Future of the Location
As of now, there is no official information regarding the future plans for the space previously occupied by Gino’s Pizza. The community remains hopeful that the location will be filled with a business that honors the legacy of the area and continues to serve the needs of the local residents.
Similar Closures in Brooklyn
Gino’s Pizza is not the only long-standing establishment in Brooklyn to close recently. Other notable closures include Moo Burger in Cobble Hill, Gus’s in Carroll Gardens, and Lenny’s Pizza in Bay Ridge. These closures highlight the challenges faced by small businesses in the borough and the impact of economic pressures on the local dining scene.
Conclusion
The closure of Gino’s Pizza in Downtown Brooklyn serves as a poignant reminder of the difficulties small businesses face in an evolving urban landscape. It underscores the importance of supporting local establishments to preserve the unique character and community spirit of neighborhoods like Downtown Brooklyn.
FAQ
What was the reason for Gino’s Pizza closing?
The pizzeria closed after nearly 40 years of service due to an inability to reach a new lease agreement with the building’s owner. Despite offering $15,000 per month, the landlord demanded $25,000, leading to the decision to close the business.
When did Gino’s Pizza close?
Gino’s Pizza ceased operations on January 16, 2026.
What was the history of Gino’s Pizza?
Established in 1986, Gino’s Pizza became a staple in Downtown Brooklyn, known for its classic New York-style pizza and welcoming atmosphere. Over the years, it garnered a loyal customer base, many of whom have been patrons since the early days.
What is the impact of Gino’s Pizza closing on the community?
The closure reflects broader challenges faced by small businesses in Brooklyn, particularly in areas undergoing rapid development and gentrification. The rising costs of rent and property values have made it increasingly difficult for long-standing establishments to remain viable. Local business owners and residents have expressed concerns about the loss of community-oriented businesses, fearing that such closures may lead to a more homogenized and less personal neighborhood experience.
What is the future of the location previously occupied by Gino’s Pizza?
As of now, there is no official information regarding the future plans for the space previously occupied by Gino’s Pizza. The community remains hopeful that the location will be filled with a business that honors the legacy of the area and continues to serve the needs of the local residents.
Are there other similar closures in Brooklyn?
Yes, other notable closures include Moo Burger in Cobble Hill, Gus’s in Carroll Gardens, and Lenny’s Pizza in Bay Ridge. These closures highlight the challenges faced by small businesses in the borough and the impact of economic pressures on the local dining scene.
What is the significance of Gino’s Pizza closing?
The closure serves as a poignant reminder of the difficulties small businesses face in an evolving urban landscape. It underscores the importance of supporting local establishments to preserve the unique character and community spirit of neighborhoods like Downtown Brooklyn.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure Date | January 16, 2026 |
| Location | Corner of Flatbush Avenue and Bergen Street, Downtown Brooklyn |
| Owner | Naser Kucevic |
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