Cosmos Pizza and Grill closes after more than 50 years on Marshall Street

After more than half a century on the Hill, Cosmos Pizza and Grill is shutting its doors.

As one of the oldest restaurants on Marshall Street, Cosmos leaves a deep impression on the Syracuse University community, including students, alumni and neighboring business owners. The restaurant was especially popular for its breakfast menu, but offered a variety of foods such as pizza, sandwiches and spaghetti.

Bill Nester, manager of Manny’s on Marshall Street, said he appreciated the food and service at Cosmos. He cherished his 31 years of friendship with the restaurant’s founder, George Cannellos, who died in 2013.

“George’s family has always been in the business," Nester said. "I miss George terribly. It’s very heart-wrenching and very upsetting to me.

"It’s like part of my family has gone.”

In its 50 years of business, Cosmos also saw more than two generations of SU students. 

SU alumnus Jeff Woods, who graduated in 1976, said he valued the nice food and efficient service at Cosmos during the four decades he's been a patron.

“I was surprised when it closed,” Woods said. “It was a great restaurant.”

Alumna Krissy Woods agreed with him. The former psychology major said she enjoyed her leisure time at Cosmos before graduating in 2008.

Current students had a mixed response about Cosmos the Thai restaurant that is slated for the iconic restaurant’s 143 Marshall St. address. Tom Tran, owner of Sweet Basil Thai House, said his Mattydale restaurant will relocate to Marshall Street.

Alison Socolow, an inclusive elementary and special education sophomore, said she appreciated the friendly service at Cosmos. She heard that the restaurant had closed when she passed by.

“That’s sad,” Socolow said. “I think it should stay because it’s been there for a while. It would be nice to keep the tradition going.”

In addition to the friendly service, Thalia Matos, a neuroscience and history junior, said she considered Cosmos an ideal restaurant for late-night snacks. However, she also said she thought the Thai restaurant that will replace Cosmos will probably offer healthier food.