Roman-Style Pizza Shop Rione is Closing

When Francesco and Alison Crovetti opened Rione in Rittenhouse Square in the spring of 2017, they aimed to bring Philadelphia authentic Roman-style pizza, which Francesco learned to make during his time growing up in Italy and while training at the Scuola Nazionale di Pizza in Rome. And while the past six-plus years have been extremely successful – with the husband-and-wife team doing exactly what they set out to do while introducing Philly to a new concept – they will be closing the doors to their business for the final time at the end of service on Thursday, August 31st.

Located on 21st Street between Chestnut and Sansom Streets, Rione was a powerhouse for several years, welcoming in busy foot traffic and pizza lovers for lunch and dinner seven days a week. But the Center City lunch landscape changed as a result of the pandemic, and lunch business never returned to what it once was in their bustling part of town. After much deliberation, and with a desire to spend more time with family, Francesco decided it was time to wrap up operations.

“We had more than six amazing years serving Philadelphia, meeting incredible people, making countless pizzas each and every day, and even ending up on Good Morning America earlier this year, but we’re ready to move on,” he said. “I am looking forward to spending more time with my wife and children, and while I’m not sure exactly what the future will hold, I’d love to support other businesses, especially when it aligns with my love and passion for pizza. I am very optimistic about what’s to come for myself and my family. We had a great run with an incredible, supportive team, including employees who have been with us nearly the whole time.”