Mama’s Pizzeria in Bala Cynwyd Closes After 67 Years

A local pizzeria renowned for its cheesesteaks has closed up shop.

Mama's Pizzeria in Bala Cynwyd, a staple since 1958, shut its doors on Saturday, Nov. 29, after serving generations of diners. Contrary to its name, the pizzeria's oversized cheesesteaks and hot sandwiches were among the most requested customer favorites over the years.

On Wednesday, Nov. 26, customers flocked to Mama's for one of the last chances to wrap their hands around a hearty cheesesteak. Demand for the final cheesesteaks was so high that some patrons were turned away after the restaurant ran out of rolls and meat.

Staff said that the owner, Paul Castellucci Sr., 64, had planned to retire next year, but the closure was moved up due to Castellucci's health issues and the inability to find a successor to run the business.

Local patrons and visitors describe Mama's Pizzeria as a defining Philadelphia-area experience and a symbol of long-standing community history in Bala Cynwyd.

"It's hands down one of the greatest steaks you'll ever have," Philadelphia native Joe McCann told CBS News Philadelphia about the cheesesteak experience. "It's yummy, full of meat. It's the best."

"There's only one Mama's," said McCann, who now lives in Ormond Beach, Florida. "There's no other Mama's out there, like where you can go to a place that resembles Mama's. It's its own staple. To see it go, it's like heartbreaking."

Castellucci thanked the customers who stopped by to wish him well, even if they couldn't get a sandwich during their visit due to demand.