On Wednesday, New Albany’s 8th Street Pizza (411 East Spring St.) took to social media to announce the eatery’s immediate closure.
It is with great sadness that we announce the closure of 8th Street Pizza at The Breakwater in New Albany. We are profoundly grateful for the years of support that have made us a cherished part of your community. We will forever treasure the memories we have shared during our time here. We hold you, New Albany, in our hearts. Please stay tuned for future updates!
The pizzeria had an uncommon and interesting back story, relayed at the 8th Street Pizza web site, as it was the offshoot of a non-profit, Clean Socks Hope. The first location was in a building located on 8th Street in New Albany; later came the move to the corner of Spring and 5th St., but with the name’s link to 8th St. retained.
8th Street Pizza sprang to life back in October 2016, when Jeff stumbled upon a quaint Baker’s Pride Pizza oven while seeking a rental space for Clean Socks Hope at the old Robinson Nugent factory. 8th Street Pizza is more than a New York-style pizzeria; it’s a beacon of community spirit and generosity, with a pay-it-forward ethos at its heart. This is a place where pizza and people connect, creating a delicious harmony.
Here at 8th Street Pizza (& Clean Socks Hope), we believe: “Our identity is not solely in who we are, but in the positive community impact we’ve made. We stand out from the crowd with our unique focus on intentional corporate social responsibility (CSR).” #8thStreetPizza #makeadifferencetoday #PizzaWithAHeart
8th Street Pizza is a unique blend of a fast casual restaurant and a socially conscious cafe. Rather than profits flowing into the pockets of an owner, our proceeds are channeled directly into supporting the deserving community of New Albany (IN). Order Now and order often, it might just be your neighbor that needs a helping hand! #ElevatedEats
In founder Jeff Minton’s explanatory video, and amid the comments following it, there is a palpable insinuation that 8th Street Pizza’s stoppage owes to factors other than P&L (read: the lease situation). Perhaps this is why Minton suggests that there may be a comeback in the offing, if not as bricks ‘n’ mortar, perhaps as a food truck or cohabitation arrangement somewhere. I live right up the street, and will continue watching.
