Marra’s, the oldest pizzeria in Philadelphia, closes its doors after 98 years on East Passyunk Avenue.

In a poignant farewell to one of South Philadelphia’s culinary landmarks, Marra’s, a family-owned pizzeria recognized as Philadelphia’s oldest, closed its doors on Sunday after nearly a century of operation. This closure comes just one day prior to the anticipated sale of its historic building located at 1734 E. Passyunk Avenue. The closure marks the end of an era for the establishment, which first opened in 1927.

The property had been listed on the market for several years and was acquired by Dan Tsao, a restaurateur known for his popular Sichuan restaurant EMEi, located in Chinatown. Tsao plans to launch a new branch of EMEi in the newly purchased location, promising to honor the building’s iconic aesthetics during renovations.

Marra’s served as a vital link to the Italian American immigrant narrative of the early 20th century, representing the steadfast spirit of the Marra and D’Adamo families. As the original founders’ descendants consider relocating and possibly continuing the restaurant legacy elsewhere, they acknowledge the charm and significance the establishment held in the community. Mario D’Adamo Jr., the grandson of one of the founders, underscored the challenges faced by the business, citing a decline in foot traffic and parking issues as contributing factors.

The current owners, Robert D’Adamo and his cousin Maurizio DeLuca, have stated that despite the emotional nature of the sale, they are ready to transition to a new chapter that will still embody the love and care that defined Marra’s over the decades.

The historic eatery, renowned for its brick oven pizza, faces uncertain prospects; the oven itself may not be salvageable, as reported by D’Adamo Jr. He noted the deterioration of the oven structure after years of intense use.

With the departure of Marra’s, a 98-year chapter closes not just for the D’Adamo family, but also for many patrons who have built lasting memories in its vibrant booths. The building will remain a hub of culinary activity, even as the city bears witness to changing times. The legacy of Marra’s will undoubtedly linger in the hearts and taste buds of its loyal customers, encapsulating a significant cultural narrative within Philadelphia’s gastronomic history.

As the neighborhood continues to evolve, local cuisine remains an integral part of its identity, capturing the essence of its diverse community. While the final pizza may have been served, the memories and stories will continue to resonate within the community and the annals of South Philadelphia’s rich heritage.