A longtime favorite in the Englewood community, Frank the Pizza King, is closing its doors after more than six decades of serving customers. The family-owned restaurant, located off South Broadway, was informed last week that it must vacate its location due to the sale of the building. For co-owner Matt Krascek, the news was both unexpected and deeply emotional.
“I was devastated when I got that call,” Krascek shared. “There’s a strong chance we could close forever. I really hope not. I pray every day that we’ll find a way through this.”
Frank the Pizza King, known for its homemade sauces, dough, and sausage, has been a staple in the Denver metro area since it opened in 1961. The restaurant was founded by Krascek’s grandparents, who emigrated from Italy and brought with them the recipes that have defined the eatery’s legacy. “They started with their own recipes, making pizzas and sandwiches. We’ve been doing it that way ever since,” Krascek said.
The sale of the building caught Krascek by surprise. He had been aware that the property was up for sale, but he didn’t anticipate how quickly the situation would escalate. “It’s hard to think about how much this place has meant to so many people, and how much it means to me and my family,” he said, visibly moved.
A Community Institution
Frank the Pizza King is more than just a restaurant; it’s a gathering place where generations of customers have forged lasting memories. Long-time patron Richard Burton, who has been coming to the restaurant since he was 8 years old, describes it as a second home. “We love each other as customers, as friends, and now family,” Burton, now 72, said. He even has a photo of his race car on the wall, a testament to his long history with the pizza joint.
Burton, who has taken his grandchildren to the restaurant, remembers the support he received from the staff during a personal tragedy. “When I was struck by lightning in 2009, Maria [the owner] made sure my family had food while I was in the hospital. You don’t find places like this anymore,” he said, his voice filled with emotion.
Future Uncertain, but Hopeful
While Krascek hopes to open a new location nearby, the future of Frank the Pizza King remains uncertain. “I’d love to stay in Englewood so our regulars can keep coming in,” Krascek said. “I want to keep this Frank’s family together — the employees, the customers. This place means everything to me and my family.”
Since the announcement, the restaurant has been flooded with customers, many of whom are expressing their support. Frank the Pizza King’s social media posts have generated hundreds of comments and shares, with an online fundraiser and petition now circulating to help secure a new location. All funds raised will go toward the move.
Though the restaurant has not yet set an official closing date, Krascek said it could happen as soon as May. “We’ve been scrambling to figure out what’s next and haven’t had time to fully focus on finding a new spot yet,” he explained.
For now, customers are making the most of their remaining time at the beloved pizzeria, cherishing the memories and the family-like atmosphere that have defined Frank the Pizza King for over six decades.
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