Listen to this articleThe basics:
- DeLorenzo’s temporarily closing to convert space into pizzeria-dispensary
- Third-generation family business aims for long-term survival
- Vision Cannabis approved to share Hamilton location with restaurant
- Business model follows NJ trend of combining retail and cannabis sales
A well-known New Jersey pizzeria says it is transforming into hybrid concept that offers piping hot pies and premium pot.
In a Sept. 3 social media post, DeLorenzo’s Pizza in Hamilton said it is temporarily closing to convert the Sloan Avenue space into a “combination pizzeria-dispensary.”
A reopening date was not provided, but the restaurant said it is looking forward to welcoming customers soon at the “exciting new venture.”
The renovation comes as the third generation of the family-run business tries to ensure its long-term survival.
A slice of history
Earlier this year, DeLorenzo’s closed for about three weeks after the state reportedly seized the property for unpaid taxes. It reopened after owner Rick DeLorenzo Jr. raised roughly $20,000 in funds through a GoFundMe campaign and other resources.
Founded in 1938 by Pasquale and Maria DeLorenzo, the pizzeria became popular for its Trenton-style tomato pies. The restaurant frequently finds itself included on “Best Pizza” rankings by publications like Food & Wine, The Star Ledger and Thrillist.
Initially, DeLorenzo’s was located in Trenton, first at the corner of Hudson and Mott streets and then on Hamilton Avenue. It moved to Hamilton in 2013.
After saving the business in March, the current owner revealed plans that called for joint-use of the building with a dispensary to help cut costs of the restaurant operation, according to NJ Advance Media.
The Hamilton Township Planning Board had previously approved DeLorenzo’s space for a dispensary owned by Vision Cannabis. The cannabis retailer has been scheduled to take over the spot when DeLorenzo’s lease expired this summer, according to the minutes of the February meeting.
When Vision Cannabis Operations Manager Josh Bell and Manager Andrew Siceloff appeared before the planning board, the pair told officials they were helping DeLorenzo’s look for a new space because they “would like to see a local business succeed.”
It is unclear how the two will operate in the same space. Vision Cannabis and DeLorenzo’s did not immediately respond to a request for more details.
Perfect blend
The upcoming venture won’t be New Jersey’s first unique cannabis retail concept. In 2023, the historic Bell Pharmacy is Camden launched a business model that combines a drug store with a dispensary under the same roof.
With cannabis once again legal to buy in New Jersey, third-generation pharmacist and Bell Pharmacy owner Minniti believes the pharmacy is the perfect place to help bring marijuana into the medical mainstream. After opening in November 2023 as a sister business to the pharmacy, Camden Apothecary serves both recreational customers and medical patients.
