According to pioneerlocal.com, “after 53 years, that inviting aroma no longer wafts out of Armand’s Pizzeria.”

“The Elmwood Park institution at 7404 Grand Ave. closed its doors June 22. ‘It was a difficult decision,’ said Mike Caringella, who now manages Armand’s Arlington Heights location. ‘We were there for more than 50 years, and we were very successful.’ Village President Peter Silvestri said he was sorry to see the place close.

“‘Armand’s was an important institution in the community for many years,’ he said. ‘I’m disappointed it closed, but I’m hoping like the rest of other sites on Grand, it will be redeveloped as soon as possible.'”

“Silvestri said the Grand Avenue corridor has received “great interest” from a number of sources.He noted a new funeral home is taking over the old Lewis Funeral Home, 7600 Grand Ave., that suffered a fire March 19; the old Armanetti’s/Tru Value property at 7550 Grand Ave. continues to attract attention; and Caputo’s is moving to an expanded location at Grand and Harlem avenues. Other redevelopment talks have centered on shopping centers and mixed commercial and residential plans. Of the Armand’s site, Silvestri said he expected to see ‘good interest’ in the site.”