For almost six decades, Paul’s Fifth Avenue, affectionately known as Paul’s Pantry, has been a cornerstone of the Grandview community. But come July 7th, this beloved local eatery will be closing its doors for the last time.
“We’re incredibly proud to have served our customers, seven days a week, for the past 58 years. Now, on to the next adventure – whatever that might be,” shared owner Paul Panzera, reflecting on the end of an era.
Paul’s Fifth Avenue has been a staple at its current location, 1565 W Fifth Avenue, since 1979. Before settling here, Paul’s Pantry had various spots, including N. High Street in Worthington and Olentangy River Rd. near North Broadway. The original 28-seat location was at 1212 W Third Ave, just outside of Grandview Heights.
Born in Italy, Paul Panzera moved to the U.S. at the tender age of seven. He began working at Tedeschi’s Italian Bakery, which later became his first restaurant in 1966. After serving in the Vietnam War at 19, he returned to his passion for the culinary arts.
Throughout the 1980s, Paul’s Fifth Avenue became a beloved family restaurant known for its Italian wedding soup, lasagna, specialty veal and chicken dishes, and a variety of unique pastas. The 1990s saw the addition of a liquor license, white tablecloths, and an expanded menu, transforming it into an evening dining destination. Paul’s Catering also took off, offering full-service events with custom menu options.
In recent years, Paul’s adapted to the changing market by focusing on quality breakfast and lunch offerings, turning back to its diner roots with hearty omelets, fresh-made home fries, and other unique dishes.
“I’m forever thankful and incredibly grateful to all of our staff and crew throughout the decades, all of our customers, and to the Grandview community for the support all of these years,” said Panzera. “It is impossible to put a hard number on it, but when we estimate, we’ve served something like 7 million meals. As my father would’ve said… Not too bad!”
If you’d like one last meal from Paul’s, be sure to stop in before July 7th.
