Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza, a beloved San Diego eatery with a history spanning over two decades, has unexpectedly closed its Mission Valley location on Camino De La Reina. The closure, which was not by choice, left loyal customers like Roger and Delia Talamantez surprised and disappointed when they arrived for lunch, only to find the restaurant packing up.
A Nostalgic Closure
Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza has been a staple in Mission Valley since 1997. Customers, such as Laurie Coskey, expressed shock and sadness upon discovering the closure. “I love their salads, I love their pizzas, my kids grew up at Sammy’s,” said Coskey. As workers dismantled the restaurant, patrons stood in disbelief, reflecting on their fond memories.
Background and Expansion
The first Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza was opened by Sami Ladeki in La Jolla in 1989. While the Mission Valley location has closed, other locations in Chula Vista and Scripps Ranch remain operational. Additionally, some Sammy’s locations have been rebranded as Toasted Gastrobrunch or Sammy’s Dinner.
Official Statement
Angela Bulgatz, Sammy’s President and CFO, provided a statement explaining the closure:”Despite our numerous attempts to stay in this location by providing renovation ideas, updates to the Sammy’s concept, and other concept ideas for the space; Sammy’s was not invited to remain by the landlord. Luckily, we have 8 other locations in San Diego, so all employees have been invited to stay in the Sammy’s family. We’ve loved our 27 years in this location and look forward to finding a new home in Mission Valley.”
Future Prospects
The restaurant announced on May 20 that Memorial Day would be their last day of service. Despite the closure, Sammy’s has ensured that its 30 employees were offered positions at its other San Diego locations. The search for a new location in Mission Valley is ongoing.
Community Reaction
The closure was brought to CBS 8’s attention by a loyal customer. The response from the community has been one of shock and disappointment. As the Talamantez’s left the restaurant for the last time, they expressed gratitude to the staff, highlighting the strong customer-service relationships that had been built over the years.
Property Management
CBS 8 has reached out to the property manager at Sunbelt Investment Holdings for comments and information regarding the new tenant for the space but has not received a response.
For many San Diegans, Sammy’s Woodfired Pizza in Mission Valley will be fondly remembered as a significant part of their dining history, and there is hope for a new chapter in a different location soon.
