Livonia Bids Farewell to Lila’s Pierogi After 21 Years

News Summary

Lila’s Pierogi, a beloved establishment in Livonia, MI, is set to close after 21 years. Co-owner Connie Calimazzo cites rising ingredient costs and changing customer habits as key factors behind the decision. The family-run restaurant, known for its homemade pierogi, has been a staple in the community and will be greatly missed as it prepares to close its doors this spring.

Livonia Bids Farewell to Lila’s Pierogi After 21 Years of Flavor

In a bittersweet turn of events for the culinary scene in Livonia, MI, Lila’s Pierogi is preparing to close its doors for the last time this spring. This cherished establishment, located on Five Mile Road near Inkster Road, has been serving up delicious pierogi since 2004 and has now reached the end of its journey after two decades of delighting locals with its homemade specialties.

Changing Tides in the Restaurant World

Co-owner Connie Calimazzo, who has poured her heart and soul into this family-run business, has decided to step away primarily due to rising costs of ingredients and shifts in customer habits. The restaurant business, once bustling with patrons eager for a comforting meal, has seen a notable decline in foot traffic over the past few years. Customers now often treat a visit to Lila’s as an afterthought, fitting it into their grocery shopping routines rather than making it a destination.

The rising costs have posed a serious challenge for Calimazzo, who emphasizes that the ingredients she uses, such as the egg in her pierogi dough, significantly increase the production cost. As expenses climb, maintaining affordability for loyal customers has become increasingly difficult.

A Family’s Next Chapter

Adding another layer to this heartfelt story, Calimazzo has also made the decision to relocate to Tennessee. This change comes as her family prepares to welcome her mother-in-law into their home, making it a practical move for their life situation. The decision followed some contemplation about where to live next, with initially Kentucky on their radar before settling on Tennessee as the new family base.

A Journey from Home Cooking to Local Staple

Lila’s Pierogi began as a humble endeavor, evolving from making pierogi for friends and family to a full-fledged shop that garnered a loyal customer following. The Calimazzo family initially planned a five-year trial to see how the business would fare—but much to their delight, that trial blossomed into 21 wonderful years filled with community support and love, making it a staple in Livonia’s vibrant food scene.

The shop has developed a loyal patronage, with many customers flocking in primarily during the holiday season, indicating just how much the community has come to cherish the pierogi and the warmth of Lila’s atmosphere. It’s a testament to how local businesses can create lasting impressions and memories over time.

Counting Down the Days

While a firm closing date hasn’t been officially set, Calimazzo predicts that Lila’s Pierogi will likely close within the next three weeks as supplies begin to dwindle. This imminent closure marks the end of an era, and the community feels the weight of the news. Many will simply miss the warm, inviting space that has been a part of their lives for so long.

Calimazzo has expressed a whirlwind of emotions about finally closing the shop, leaving behind not just a business but an integral part of her family life. The memories created over the years have added immense value to her family, enabling her to raise her children and nurture a dream that blossomed into reality.

What Lies Ahead

Lila’s Pierogi prepares to say goodbye, it leaves behind a legacy filled with love, tradition, and delicious meals. It stands as a reminder of the importance of local businesses in creating community connections. So, Livonia, as you approach these upcoming days, cherish those last few bites of that homemade goodness, and remember the wonderful moments shared at this local gem. A change may be on the horizon, but the flavors of Lila’s will linger on in the hearts of many.

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Additional Resources

• Hometown Life: Livonia Bids Farewell to Lila’s Pierogi
• Wikipedia: Pierogi
• Patch: Popular Wayne Co. Pierogi Shop Closing Down After 21 Years
• Google Search: Lila’s Pierogi Livonia
• Detroit Free Press: Fish Fry 2025 for Lent
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Restaurant
• Eater Detroit: Best Paczki in Detroit
• Google News: Lila’s Pierogi