According to their website, the popular pizza shop Hollywood Pies abruptly ceased operations as of yesterday, Oct. 3. On their Facebook page they say that the decision was based on family needs and issues, and they also ask everyone to stay tuned for possible closing festivities.

The loss comes not only as a deep blow to their loyal customers but to us as well, since our current Best of L.A. issue declared that they serve the Best Deep-Dish Pizza in town.

What began as a pick-up only pizzeria, one that didn't list its address and baked out of a commercial kitchen, grew into a small restaurant in the Pico-La Cienega neighborhood. The seemingly always busy business survived less than six months, having opened the brick-and-mortar in April.

For those of you who never had the rich and hearty pies, there is a tiny sliver of hope. The owners are offering information to those “interested in continuing the legacy or licensing our recipes and process.” To do so, contact them at HollywoodPies@gmail.com.

If you have ever considered bringing happiness to Southern California via Chicago-style pies, we strongly urge you to give it a go. In the meantime, Hollywood Pies' unique take on pizza will be sorely missed.

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