Pizzeria Paradiso, a Neapolitan-style pizza restaurant that has operated in Georgetown for 23 years, will close its doors later this month as management shifts focus to a takeout spinoff.
Decision driven by lease talks and investment needs
Managing partner Carlos Gonzalez said the owners were unable to reach terms on a new lease for the Georgetown storefront and that the space required significant investment to refresh the restaurant. Rather than undertake that work, the team will concentrate on expanding Paradiso Pronto, a takeout concept offering whole pies and slices.
“It’s been awesome, and we’re so happy to be here for that long. We’re ready to keep going and grow as a company.”
The company has planned a farewell event for the Georgetown location on Sunday, July 26 from noon to 3 p.m., where free slices and salads will be offered to thank the local community.
Business context and future plans
Pizzeria Paradiso began with its Dupont Circle flagship and opened the Georgetown shop as its second location. Over the years the Georgetown site hosted other pursuits such as a basement beer bar and later a game room. The restaurant group also continues to operate locations in Spring Valley and Hyattsville.
- Reason for closure: could not agree on lease terms; space needed a refresh
- Immediate impact: farewell celebration with complimentary food on July 26
- Strategic shift: expansion of Paradiso Pronto, a takeout-focused brand
From kitchen staff to ownership
Gonzalez, who emigrated from El Salvador, started with the company as a dishwasher in 2000 at the Dupont location and later became kitchen manager when the Georgetown restaurant opened. In 2024, the founder brought him on as a co-owner of the business. He said the move allows the company to pursue growth opportunities through the takeout concept.
| Location | Status |
|---|---|
| Georgetown | Closing after 23 years; farewell event July 26 |
| Dupont Circle (flagship) | Operating |
| Spring Valley, Hyattsville | Operating |
The company recently opened a Paradiso Pronto kiosk in National Landing’s Water Park and has announced plans to further expand that takeout-focused model. The closure marks the end of a long chapter for the Georgetown dining scene and reflects broader trends in the restaurant industry where operators retool formats in response to lease costs, capital needs and changing customer preferences.
