A new Wellesley restaurant called Firebird Pizza Co. is slated to open later this month in the former Deluxe Pizza space at 1 Forest St.

Deluxe had been at the spot for more than 30 years, led by Emmanuel “Manny” Houlis, but closed at the start of the year.

The owners of The Local, which is almost right near Deluxe Pizza, purchased the space and initially planned to re-open it as Deluxe Pizza in time for this past Boston Marathon to come through town.

But there clearly was a change of plans. At one point we’d seen a concept floating around called Fry-Bird, but rather, Firebird it is. Maybe they can get a deal with the Orleans Firebirds baseball team on the Cape.

The restaurant, which owner Frank Santo says is projected to open on Oct. 21, leads with scratch pizza and crispy chicken sandwiches. It’ll be open seven days a week and offer catering in addition to restaurant service, takeout, and online ordering.

Firebird pledges that “our menu blends classic favorites with unexpected twists.” As for the pizza, Firebird touts “Double Zero Flour, imported olive oils, the real-deal San Marzano sauce, Grande whole milk mozz, hand-packed ricotta, and freshly grated Romano. No shortcuts. No fake cheese. Just straight-up fire pizza.” You can buy by the slice or pie.