Frank’s Pizza Shop in Winter Park has closed

It’s been a successful year for Frank’s Pizza Shop, which opened last year on University Boulevard as a 2.0 for Antonella’s after some time off the grid, but for now, at least, owner and premier pizzaiolo Frank Paradiso is hanging up the apron.

The space will soon become an NYPD Pizza.

“I sold Frank’s to better balance my work and family life,” says Paradiso.

Best Pizza: 2025 Orlando Sentinel Foodie Awards

Paradiso’s pizza, including a grandma pie that’s won him multiple Orlando Sentinel Foodie Awards, is singular. Finding adequate help to keep up quality so he could step away proved too challenging in today’s climate, but he’s not looking to retire just yet.

“This change frees up time to pursue new opportunities and, most importantly, to focus on the possibility of taking back the original Antonella’s location.”

Antonella’s Pizza, at 360 W. Fairbanks Ave. in Winter Park, was sold to another operator shortly before Frank’s Pizza Shop opened in 2024.

Frank’s Pizza Shop changes hands: (left to right) real estate broker Samantha Sawyer, NYPD Pizza owners Valerie Abreu and Mickey Paulino with Frank Paradiso. (Courtesy Frank Paradiso)

As Paradiso enjoys family time and strategizes, he wishes NYPD the best of luck in their endeavor at the University Boulevard location.

“I want to thank the staff who, day in and day out, pushed to create the new brand, and our loyal fans and guests, whose continued support made the run successful.”

“Thank you for being a part of our journey. We couldn’t have done it without you. And you haven’t seen the last of us.”

Find me on Facebook, TikTok, Twitter or Instagram @amydroo or on the OSFoodie Instagram account @orlando.foodie. Email: amthompson@orlandosentinel.com, For more foodie fun, join the Let’s Eat, Orlando Facebook group.

https://www.orlandosentinel.com/2025/09/02/franks-pizza-shop-in-winter-park-has-closed/