Neighborhood staple shutters after decade of service
Lakewood’s Pizzeria Lui, a small counter-service restaurant at 5380 W. Mississippi Ave., has closed after 10 years in business. The shop, known for its Neapolitan-style pizzas, opened in 2017 when proprietor Zach Parini left a baking job at Golden’s Grateful Bread to start the venture.
In an Instagram post announcing the closure, the business expressed appreciation to customers and staff and said the owners are looking forward to spending time with family.
“It is with gratitude that we share, that after 10 years, Pizzeria Lui is closed… We thank you for your loyalty and appreciation over the years.”
Business history and community role
Pizzeria Lui grew a following quickly, appearing on local lists of top pizzas in the metro area, including mentions in The Denver Post in 2021 and 2023. The restaurant’s hours were deliberately short — typically open from 3 to 9 p.m. — a schedule Parini maintained to preserve personal time while running the shop. Business notably increased during the 2020 pandemic as takeout orders rose.
What this means for Lakewood
The closing removes a recognized spot from Lakewood’s dining scene and leaves a vacancy on West Mississippi Avenue, an area that supports a mix of longtime small businesses and newer restaurants. For regular customers, the loss is both culinary and communal: smaller neighborhood eateries often serve as gathering places as well as food sources.
- Address: 5380 W. Mississippi Ave., Lakewood
- Years in operation: 2017–2026 (10 years)
- Typical hours: 3–9 p.m.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 2017 | Restaurant opened |
| 2020 | Takeout business increased during pandemic |
| 2021 & 2023 | Featured in The Denver Post’s lists of top pizzas |
| 2026 | Announced closure |
Staff members and customers were specifically thanked in the Instagram message, which also acknowledged the team’s hard work and dedication. The announcement did not include plans for the space or future endeavors for the owners.
For Lakewood residents who frequented the shop, this marks the end of a decade-long chapter. As the neighborhood adjusts, local diners and business watchers will be looking to see what replaces the beloved pizzeria and how the West Mississippi corridor continues to evolve.
