For nearly four decades, Brooklyn Brick Oven Pizza has been more than a restaurant to my family. It has been our life.

I started Brooklyn Brick Oven Pizza in 1988, and we have been serving the Manhattan Beach community for more than 30 years. My children grew up in the restaurant. My son Robert Jr., who was just a little boy running around the pizza shop, is now helping manage it. My daughter Brooklyn grew up there too — the restaurant carries her name.

Over the years, we have supported local families, schools, sports teams and the Mira Costa community whenever we could. We have watched generations of customers grow up, bring in their children, and become part of our extended family.

In September 2025, I was seriously injured in an automobile accident. The injuries eventually led to a total hip replacement on August 20, 2026. At 68 years old, recovering from major surgery has made it extremely difficult for me to do the physical work I have always done at the restaurant.

Chomper was also injured in the car accident with me. He is still hurting and recuperating, and he may need surgery. While I’m working through my own recovery and trying to keep the restaurant going, I also have to make sure Chomper receives the care he needs. He has been by my side through everything, and now I need to be there for him.

At the same time, the restaurant has been dealing with rising expenses, repairs and financial pressure. After spending so many years helping our community, I am asking the community for some help keeping Brooklyn Brick Oven Pizza going while I recover and get back on my feet.

Every donation, no matter the amount, will help us keep the doors open, take care of our employees, handle necessary expenses and give this family restaurant a chance to continue serving Manhattan Beach for years to come.

If you have ever eaten one of our pizzas, brought your family in, played on a team we supported, or simply believe that longtime neighborhood businesses are worth saving, I would be grateful for your help.

Thank you for being part of the Brooklyn Brick Oven Pizza family.

Robert Udovich