Legendary Dayton pizza restaurant closing for good

“We are really, really hoping some one will take it so it can stick around,” manager said.

Credit: Amelia Robinson

Credit: Amelia Robinson

***UPDATE!!***

Please see this follow-up story about a “change of heart” by the owner of El Greco’s Pizza Villa:

>> 'CHRISTMAS MIRACLE': Fans of El Greco Pizza Villa rejoice at owner's change of heart (Nov. 28, 2018)

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***ORIGINAL STORY (Nov. 19, 2018)*** 

A Dayton classic known for its square-cut pizza, tacos and year-round Christmas lights will closing its doors by the end of the year.

>> A Dayton classic: why to visit El Greco's Pizza Villa

El Greco's Pizza Villa, 3976 Salem Ave., said it would close Dec. 22 in a Facebook message to fans this morning.

Amber Cash, the restaurant's manager, said owner Johna Sanchez hopes to find a buyer for the restaurant, which opened in the 1950s or 1960s.

“We are really, really hoping someone will take it so it can stick around,” Cash said.

Sanchez bought the business 11 years ago from her son-in-law’s family.

She was not available for comment by phone Saturday. She announced the restaurant’s closure on Facebook.

“I think she is overwhelmed with the response,” Cash told this news organization today, Nov. 17. “Everybody is calling and messaging and texting  about it.”

>> RELATED: Your guide to the best Dayton-area pizza

The following message was put on the restaurant’s Facebook page Saturday, Nov. 17:

"Dear, loyal customers, our last day will be Saturday, Dec. 22. This was not an easy decision by any means as I've spent most of my life in Greco's. It's also been a staple in many of your own lives'. There isn't a day that goes by that I don't hear a story from you. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your loyalty, your memories, and your stories! I would also like to thank my Greco's family, current as well as those from past years. Their love for Greco's, loyalty and commitment has always astounded me. I would love to see a new leader take the helm to continue this long standing tradition. It's not easy by any means, but very fulfilling. We've always been the place people come home to, and it's an important job and would require a love for "Greco's and all it represents. Change is never easy so please keep us in your prayers."

>> RELATED: Taco Tuesday! El Grecos’ Pizza Villa offers discount on “Best” Tacos in town

Reaction to the announcement on the restaurant’s Facebook page was swift.

“Oh no, my heart is broken,” one customer wrote in a comment.

Another wrote, “Been going there since high school (early 70's) -- I’m going to miss El Greco’s. The food is great and sure beats all of the chain restaurants. Always a little surprised they were able to keep the doors open as long as they have.”

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Credit: Amelia Robinson

Credit: Amelia Robinson

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