Chicago, Illinois — One of Chicago’s most recognizable pizza destinations is preparing to close its doors, but company leaders say the move does not signal the end of the beloved restaurant’s presence in the neighborhood.
Lou Malnati’s has announced that its iconic Gold Coast location at 1120 N. State Street will officially close on June 30, ending a 15-year run at one of the company’s most prominent restaurants.
The news has sparked disappointment among loyal customers, but company officials say plans are already underway to establish a new full-service location nearby.
Why the Gold Coast Location Is Closing
According to the company, the closure is not the result of declining business or operational challenges.
Instead, Lou Malnati’s said the building’s new owner chose not to renew the restaurant’s lease because of plans to redevelop the property.
The Gold Coast restaurant has long been considered one of the chain’s flagship locations, serving residents, tourists, and deep-dish pizza enthusiasts from across the country.
Company officials acknowledged that losing the location is disappointing but emphasized that the decision was beyond their control.
“We consider the Gold Coast location a flagship pizzeria, and it is unfortunate that we must temporarily close our dine-in and carryout service in that area,” said CEO Julie Younglove-Webb.
She added that the company remains committed to maintaining a presence in the neighborhood.
Plans Already Underway for a New Restaurant
As soon as the company learned the lease would not be renewed, executives began exploring options for a replacement location.
According to Lou Malnati’s, several potential sites are currently under consideration in Chicago’s near-north area.
The company has even explored the possibility of becoming part of the future redevelopment project planned for the current property.
While no final decision has been announced, management says finding a permanent new home remains a priority.
“We remain fully dedicated to serving the neighborhood through delivery while we secure a permanent new home for a full-service restaurant in the near-north area,” Younglove-Webb said.
For longtime customers, that means the closure may ultimately be temporary rather than permanent.
Delivery Service Will Continue
Although dine-in and carryout operations at the Gold Coast location are ending, customers will still be able to order their favorite menu items.
Lou Malnati’s announced that delivery service will continue through a temporary kitchen operated by the same team that currently serves the neighborhood.
Customers can place orders by phone, through the company’s website, or via the Lou Malnati’s mobile app.
The restaurant emphasized that menu items will continue to be prepared using the same recipes and standards that have helped make the brand a Chicago institution.
Property Redevelopment Driving Change
The closure follows a major real estate transaction involving the property.
In September 2025, real estate firm Convexity Properties acquired the buildings at 1120 and 1130 N. State Street for approximately $39 million.
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At the time of the purchase, the property was described as a key component in the continued revitalization of the Gold Coast district.
The redevelopment plans ultimately led to the decision not to renew Lou Malnati’s lease, forcing the company to seek a new location.
A Beloved Chicago Brand Looks Ahead
Founded decades ago, Lou Malnati’s has become synonymous with Chicago-style deep-dish pizza and remains one of the city’s most recognizable restaurant brands.
Today, the company operates 69 locations, serving customers throughout Illinois and beyond.
While the closure marks the end of a chapter for the Gold Coast restaurant, company officials say they remain optimistic about returning to the area in the future.
For many customers, the news may be bittersweet, but the promise of a new location means fans likely won’t have to wait forever to enjoy Lou Malnati’s in the neighborhood once again.
Have you ever visited the Gold Coast Lou Malnati’s location?
What are your favorite memories of the restaurant, and where would you like to see its next Chicago location open? Share your thoughts in the comments below.