A SLICE of Malvern’s history has come to an end after the owners of the town’s first ever pizza restaurant decided to call it a day.
Husband and wife team Mehdi and Sarah Gerami have run Pizza Fiesta since its launch in 1990 – but all that is set to change after making their final topping for hungry customers.
The pair have decided to move on to pastures new with the Graham Road business set to be taken over by Malvern residents Hani Hemdi and Yasser Ibrahem.
The store opened in October 1990 and when first launched was known to be the town’s first ever dedicated pizza shop.
Over the years it has seen thousands of customers drop by for many different toppings on its menu which offers a wide range of pizzas.
Even the likes of the late Michael Winner and Loyd Grossman have visited the restaurant for a bite to eat while staying in the town to perform at the nearby Malvern Theatres.
Sarah told The Observer the pair will miss the place they have put so much time and dedication into.
“It’s been a great 25 years but we feel now it is the right time to have a break,” she said.
“Running the store here in Malvern has been an absolute joy and meeting so many people has been the most joyful part.
“What has been great is seeing customers come here young and old and watching their lives transform.
“There was one young man who came here the other day buying a pizza and I remember him coming here with his parents when he was younger.”
Mrs Gerami thanked everyone for their support since the day they took the shop over.
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the customers for supporting us over the last 25 years, and hope they will continue enjoying pizzas under the new owners,” she said. “Thanks also to the staff who have worked with us.
“We wish Hemdi and Yasser all the best. As well as continuing with the favourites (on the menu) they are going to introduce some new lines including pasta.”
Mr Ibrahem, who previously run a pizza store in Bath, said he was looking forward to the challenge.
“It is very exciting to be running this great store – I have some big plans for the place,” he said.
