Mama’s Pizzeria, a Main Line staple for 65 years known for its signature cheesesteak, will be closing its doors in Bala Cynwyd for good next week, writes Tommy Rowan for The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Depending on the inventory, Paul Castellucci Sr., its second-generation owner, will close Mama’s Pizzeria on November 28 or 29. He had intended to wait until his son had completed his accounting license after graduating from St. Joseph’s University in 2026, but his own health issues have moved up the closure. The 65-year-old grill man is scheduled for triple bypass surgery in January.
The shop has been a workplace for the entire Castellucci family over the years, including kids, grandkids, spouses, and cousins. The current owner began working the grill at just 14 in 1974.
In 2025, “I’m the only one who stayed,” he said.
Business has surged since the impending closure was first mentioned on social media, with orders piling up so quickly that the restaurant started worrying that they would run out of rolls.
“I’m feeling it,” said Castellucci.
Customers who ordered their popular cheesesteaks made sure to wish him good luck and good health.
Read more about Bala Cynwyd’s Mama’s Pizzeria in The Philadelphia Inquirer.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published on MONTCO Today in November 2025.
