End of an Avenue B era for Gruppo as it will relocate to the Bowery in March

Photos and reporting by Stacie Joy 

After 26 years on Avenue B, Gruppo is heading to a new home. 

Owner Antonio Gomez said the thin-crust pizza specialists are relocating and merging with their sister restaurant, Spunto.

The combined restaurant will reopen at 261 Bowery, between Houston and Stanton, bringing the two brands under one roof. 

"We'll have the same food, same vibe — just a new location," Gomez said. 

Gruppo's lease on Avenue B and Spunto's lease on Carmine Street both recently ended, prompting the consolidation. The current Avenue B location is expected to close on March 21, with an immediate reopening planned at the Bowery space. 

Manager Rita Dell'Aquila says the Gruppo name will be folded into Spunto, which holds the liquor license. The new restaurant will offer an expanded but familiar menu, a full bar, and the same delivery zone—an important part of the restaurant's business. The Bowery location will also accommodate larger groups and offer more flexible seating. 

Staffers at Gruppo will remain employed. Dell'Aquila said, "Everyone has been accommodated in the restructuring."

Gruppo first opened at 186 Avenue B in 1999 before later moving to 98 Avenue B between Sixth Street and Seventh Street.

Gomez said the team plans to host a series of events and gatherings in the coming weeks so neighbors can pay homage to the Avenue B space before the move.

"We're looking forward to celebrating with everybody," he said.

H/T Salim!