Chris' Pizza, a longstanding neighborhood mainstay at Toco Hills shopping center (2911 North Druid Hills Road) is closing. The restaurant, which first opened in 1983, will close as of December 23. Chris', which served pizza as well as other Greek favorites, had been for sale for several months but unable to find a buyer and with costs (both food and rent) continuing to rise, ownership made the decision to close.
For ToNeTo Atlanta, Chris' Pizza will always hold a special place in our hearts as it was where we first met Sherrod "Pete" Patterson, a local resident and President of the Leafmore-Creek Park Hills civic association. Pete and his wife Angie, who were already fans of ToNeTo Atlanta, become what we like to call our "super fans," and their support has been tremendous. Sadly Pete passed away last August. Those wishing to honor Pete and his contributions to our site and the community at large, may contribute to Saint Barnabas Anglican Church.
Chris' Pizza is one of the last vestiges of the center's last regime that also included eateries Bagel Palace, Petite Auberge and Famous Pub as well as retailers like Shoe Center, all of which have closed since then new owner Edens purchased the center in late 2015.
In the years since the Edens acquisition, the real estate firm has made significant improvements to the aesthetics of the center as well as upgrades in other areas. That said, all these improvements come at a cost and the resulting increase in rents has caused many of the small local businesses to close or relocate.
Regional and national chains like Ulta Beauty, Conte's Bike Shop and Westside Market have all opened in the center along with eateries such as Yumbii, Chopt, Flying Biscuit and Kale Me Crazy. Crumbl, a growing national franchise cookie shop, is expected to open soon, as is Silla Del Toro, a Spanish tapas restaurant from Fork U Concepts that has an existing location on the Marietta Square.
Are you sad to see Chris' Pizza close at Toco Hills? What are your thoughts on the new tenants in and planned for Toco Hills? What would you like to see open in place of Chris' Pizza at Toco Hills?
Please share your thoughts below.