NYPD Pizza founder Paul Russo recently spoke with Orlando Business Journal about the challenges facing small businesses, coinciding with the closure of the MetroWest location. In his conversation with the publication, Russo shared insights into the pressures that have made operating in today’s economic climate increasingly difficult for independent restaurants and franchise owners alike. The discussion highlights the factors that contributed to the difficult decision to close the MetroWest store, while also offering a broader perspective on the hurdles many small businesses encounter, from rising costs to changing market conditions. Through his comments, Russo emphasizes the importance of resilience, careful planning, and support for local businesses as they navigate these ongoing challenges.

The article can be found here.

WKMG News 6 recently visited the NYPD Pizza Metro West location in Orlando’s MetroWest neighborhood to film an in-depth segment on the restaurant’s upcoming closure. The news team spoke with staff and customers, capturing the emotional impact of the decision on the local community. After 25 years of serving New York–style pizza, the restaurant is closing its doors due to rising operational costs, including significant rent increases and other inflationary pressures that have made it increasingly difficult to maintain profitability. The segment highlights the challenges faced by small businesses in today’s economic climate while celebrating the long-standing presence and loyal customer base of NYPD Pizza Metro West. WKMG News 6’s coverage provides viewers with a detailed look at both the practical and personal factors that led to the difficult decision to close this beloved local pizzeria. (clickorlando.com

The segment can be viewed here:
https://www.clickorlando.com/video/news/2025/10/23/orlando-nypd-pizza-restaurant-to-shut-down-over-rising-costs/

October 17, 2025 // Franchising.com // Orlando, FL —

“NYPD Pizza Metrowest Closes After 25 Years, Citing Doubling Rent and Unsustainable Lease Terms”

After 25 years of serving Orlando’s Dr Phillips, Metrowest and Windermere communities, NYPD Pizza will be closing its Metrowest location on Friday, October 24th. This comes after being unable to reach a lease renewal agreement with the property’s landlord. The closure is part of a growing trend affecting operators across the restaurant industry—where rent hikes, including instances of doubling lease costs, are becoming increasingly common and difficult to absorb.

“What’s happening isn’t just about small or family-run businesses anymore—it’s hitting everyone,” said Paul Russo, Founder of NYPD Pizza. “We’ve been hearing more and more about these aggressive rent increases, and now it’s happened to us. The terms we were presented with were simply unsustainable.”

As commercial landlords continue pushing for higher returns, many restaurant operators—regardless of size or history—are finding themselves priced out of the very neighborhoods they helped to build and serve. NYPD Pizza’s departure from Metrowest reflects a broader industry-wide challenge where the gap between lease expectations and economic viability is widening.

A new NYPD Pizza location will soon open in Winter Park, led by franchise owner Valerie Abreu, who brings a strong passion for hospitality and a commitment to continuing the brand’s tradition of great food and community connection.

NYPD Pizza will continue serving Central Florida through its four existing locations, with additional stores currently in development. The company is also actively seeking a new corporate location in the Metrowest area.

“We may be leaving this location, but we’re not leaving the community,” Russo added. “We’re incredibly grateful for 24 amazing years here, and we look forward to returning—when we can do so on terms that make sense for everyone involved.”

WINTER PARK, FL – Following the recent announcement of its expansion into the Winter Park area, NYPD Pizza is excited to officially confirm the address of its newest location: 7591 University Blvd, Winter Park, FL 32792. Tel: (407) 960-2160

Earlier this month, NYPD Pizza shared news of its partnership with new franchisee Valerie Abreu, who will lead the brand’s growth in one of Central Florida’s most energetic and diverse communities. The new location, situated near Full Sail University and the University of Central Florida, promises to bring the pizzeria’s iconic New York-style offerings even closer to students, families, and longtime area residents.

“Our team has been working hard behind the scenes, and we’re thrilled to finally share the exact address with our loyal fans,” said Paul Russo, founder of NYPD Pizza. “This spot on University Boulevard—formerly Frank’s Pizza Shop—is the perfect fit for our brand and our commitment to serving quality, authentic food with the kind of neighborhood hospitality NYPD Pizza is known for.”

Renovations are currently underway, with the grand opening planned for the coming weeks. The restaurant will feature NYPD Pizza’s signature hand-tossed dough, fresh ingredients, and time-tested recipes that have made the brand a Central Florida favorite since 1996.

For updates, including grand opening details and to apply for employment, follow NYPD Pizza on social media or visit nypdpizzeria.com

NYPD Pizza is proud to announce Matt and Mia Shamseddini as the new proprietors of the beloved Hunter’s Creek location. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, Matt and Mia are poised to continue the tradition of quality and service that patrons have come to expect.

NYPD Pizza has has become a beloved go-to spot in Hunter’s Creek for its authentic New York-style pizza and diverse Italian menu. With the transition of ownership to the Shamseddinis, customers can rest assured that the same dedication to quality will continue.

NYPD Pizza Franchise Founder Welcomes new Franchisees

Paul Russo, Founder and CEO of NYPD Pizza, expressed his warm welcome to the new franchisees, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Matt & Mia Shamseddini to the NYPD Pizza family. Their enthusiasm and dedication to maintaining the integrity of our brand while infusing fresh energy into the Hunter’s Creek location are commendable.”

Unique Expertise

Matt & Mia Shamseddini bring their unique expertise and passion to the forefront as they embark on this new venture. With a vision to maintain a welcoming space where families and friends can gather, the duo aims to continue to build upon the foundation of NYPD Pizza’s success.

The transition of ownership is effective immediately, and Matt & Mia Shamseddini eagerly anticipate welcoming customers, both familiar faces and newcomers, to experience the enduring excellence of NYPD Pizza at Hunter’s Creek.

This month NYPD Pizza Winter Garden, celebrates its 15 year anniversary. Franchisee Paul Overeem opened the location in 2008, as a 1800 square foot pizzeria and was the first to bring authentic New York style pizza to Winter Garden. In 2016, due to overwhelming demand, they expanded their location, doubling its size. Over the years, it has become a fixture in the Winter Garden food scene and in the community.

Orlando, FL 7/24/2023 – NYPD Pizza, the renowned pizzeria franchise, is happy to announce a new milestone in its journey of growth and expansion. We are thrilled to welcome Christopher Zambrano and Wayne Barger as the newest members of the NYPD Pizza family, who have signed on as franchisees for a brand new location in Central Florida.

New Agreement Signed

The signing of this franchise agreement represents a renewed effort to bring our authentic New York-style pizza and exceptional dining experience to more pizza enthusiasts in Central Florida.

“We are delighted to have Chris and Wayne join the NYPD Pizza family and embark on this exciting venture together,” said Paul Russo, Founder and CEO of NYPD Pizza.

Located in Central Florida

The new NYPD Pizza location in Central Florida will showcase the brand’s iconic menu, featuring a delectable array of hand-tossed pizzas, mouthwatering pasta dishes, flavorful salads, and more. Prepared with the finest, freshest ingredients and infused with the authentic taste of New York, NYPD Pizza’s offerings are sure to tantalize the taste buds of pizza aficionados and food lovers alike.

“At NYPD Pizza, we take immense pride in our heritage and the cherished recipes that have won the hearts of pizza enthusiasts worldwide,” said Paul Russo. “We are thrilled to have Christopher Zambrano and Wayne Barger as our esteemed partners for this exciting venture, and we are confident that their passion and dedication will ensure the success of this new Central Florida location.”

Known for Quality, Taste and Community

NYPD Pizza has been synonymous with quality, taste, and community for [number of years] and continues to garner praise for its unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction. With the addition of this new franchise in Central Florida, the NYPD Pizza family is poised to grow and make an indelible mark on the region’s culinary landscape.

About NYPD Pizza: Founded in 1996, NYPD Pizza has been a pioneer in serving authentic New York-style pizza to customers across the nation. With a focus on using the finest ingredients, time-honored recipes, and exceptional customer service, NYPD Pizza has become a cherished destination for pizza lovers everywhere.

In a recent development, NYPD Pizza has announced that it has switched its soft-drink selection in all stores to Pepsi brand products. This move comes as part of the company’s efforts to improve its beverage offerings and provide its customers with a wider range of options. With the switch to Pepsi, customers can now enjoy a variety of flavors and products that were not previously available. This change is sure to be welcomed by many patrons of the popular pizza chain, who can now enjoy their favorite pizzas with a refreshing Pepsi beverage.

NYPD Pizza is celebrating it’s 25th Anniversary. NYPD Pizza first opened it’s doors in Downtown Orlando, FL on April 4th 1996.