TINLEY PARK, IL — Arrenello's Pizza in Tinley Park has closed as its owner looks toward retirement, the business said on social media Monday.
"After 22 wonderful years in Tinley Park, we have made the bittersweet decision to close that location as we begin our journey into semi-retirement," shared the business on Facebook.
The location had seemingly been temporarily closed for a month before the announcement, with a sign on the door noting staffing shortages.
"With the increasing challenges of finding and maintaining reliable staff, along with the demands of running a business, we feel the time has come to slow down a little," the business shared. "We have poured our hearts and souls into this business, creating countless memories and friendships along the way."
Owner Rich Matokar opened the first Arrenello's in Glenwood in 1972, and the restaurant became known for its famous stuffed pizza, crispy thin crust, extra-thick crust, chicken, wings, pasta, seafood, sandwiches, salads, desserts—"and the signature sweet pizza sauce customers keep coming back for," according to its website. The business has also remained in the family.
The original location was followed by the Highland, Indiana location opening in 1992, then Tinley Park in 2004. The Glenwood location closed in May 2026, and most recently, a location opened in St. John, Indiana, in June 2026.
"To our loyal customers, dedicated employees, and wonderful community, thank you for 22 unforgettable years of love and support," the family shared. "This isn't goodbye, just the beginning of a new chapter!"
The Indiana locations are:
Sign up for free local newsletters and alerts for the
Tinley Park Patch
Patch.com is the nationwide leader in hyperlocal news.
Visit Patch.com to find your town today.