Carli Clesmere 
For years, Torna’s Pizzeria was a go-to spot for locals craving a classic slice, especially that iconic Sicilian. While Hoboken said goodbye to the longtime favorite, fans of Torna’s don’t have to say goodbye to the pizza entirely. One member of the Torna’s team decided the pizza journey wasn’t quite finished and has since found a new home in Clifton. The Sicilian that locals still dream about lives there now. Read on for more about where to find it.
Torna’s Pizzeria Closed in Hoboken After More Than 50 Years
After more than 50 years in the Mile Square, Torna’s Pizzeria at 254 9th Street officially closed its doors on July 24th, 2025. The tucked-away spot between Park Avenue and Willow Avenue had long been a go-to for locals craving a classic, no-frills slice — especially that iconic Sicilian. Since its closing, many Hoboken residents have definitely been feeling the loss, and the search for a square slice that hits quite the same has been very real. Even though the ovens have cooled, Torna’s remains one of those neighborhood staples that longtime locals still talk about (and crave).
Monte’s Pizzeria Is Now Open in Clifton (and bringing the famous Sicilian with them)
Soon after, locals started connecting the dots. Back on January 21st, 2025, Monte’s Pizzeria in Clifton posted a “coming soon” announcement on Instagram, and it turns out the connection was real. Mike Castella, who was previously associated with Torna’s Pizzeria, is the one behind the new Clifton spot. For longtime fans, it seems his pizza journey didn’t end when Torna’s closed its doors — it simply found a new home a few miles away.
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Monte’s Pizzeria is now open at 849 Clifton Avenue in Clifton, just a stone’s throw from Essex County, giving Essex locals, Passaic County residents, and even Hobokenites who miss that Torna’s flavor a chance to savor it again. The menu features pizzas by the pie or slice, along with classic Italian dishes and appetizers. Diners can expect options like eggplant rollatini, meatball subs, baked ziti, and other comforting favorites.
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