After serving the Naperville community for 12 years, Aurelio’s Pizza will close its doors on June 30. Owner Celeste Wagner announced that the decision to shut down the beloved pizzeria was deeply emotional and influenced by significant financial challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a heartfelt social media post on Monday, Celeste and her husband, Steve Wagner, shared the news with their customers. They explained that the business climate has become exceedingly difficult for the restaurant industry, particularly due to post-pandemic inflation.
“The current business climate has been very rough and volatile for the restaurant industry,” their statement read. “The post-pandemic inflation has brought unforeseen hurdles that eventually were too much for our business to bear, and it has become impossible for us to keep Aurelio’s going.”
Celeste Wagner, who has been a part of Aurelio’s family for decades, expressed her sorrow in an interview on Tuesday.
“My phone kind of blew up when we first announced it,” she said, reflecting on the community’s outpouring of support since the closure announcement. Online, their announcement garnered dozens of comments from patrons expressing gratitude and well wishes for the future.
Aurelio’s Pizza at 1975 Springbrook Square Drive has been a staple in Naperville since 2012. The chain itself has a rich history, dating back to 1959 when Celeste’s uncle, Joe Aurelio, opened the first restaurant in Homewood, Illinois. Over the years, the family-owned business expanded, and today, it boasts more than three dozen locations across six states.
Celeste Wagner’s connection to Aurelio’s runs deep. She recalled her first job at Aurelio’s when she was just 16 years old.
“It’s been wonderful to have a family business that I’ve been with for so long,” she said, reminiscing about the cherished memories she’s gathered over the years. From seeing employees grow up to celebrating milestones with loyal customers, Wagner said, “It’s just been nice to follow along with people’s lives and their celebrations.”
One of the most challenging aspects of the closure for Wagner is saying goodbye to her dedicated staff. Many team members have been with the Naperville location for nearly a decade, creating a tight-knit, family-like environment. “It’s like a family,” Wagner emphasized, noting the deep bonds formed over the years.
Despite the closure of the Naperville location, other Aurelio’s Pizza franchises will remain unaffected. Nearby locations in Plainfield, Downers Grove, Wheaton/Winfield, and Geneva will continue to serve their communities.
As June 30 approaches, the Naperville community is left to reflect on the fond memories created at Aurelio’s Pizza. While the physical location may be closing, the legacy of family, community, and great pizza will endure.