07/30/2024
Thank you for your support and best of luck to you
By now I’m sure you’ve heard, but a few local favorites have closed/are closing this week. One is Papa’s Pizza, which was my favorite around before we opened. It reminded me of my dad’s pie (ironically, with a name like that). Great family business for nearly 30 years. Gone, not because they failed , but because of corporate greed from their new landlord.
Another, Peter and Sons, closed last week. Again, not due to failure. Arguably the most famous cheesesteak this side of the bridge. All built out of Peter’s dream. He was able to do what he loved with the people he loves, a story I absolutely related to. Really great people.
There’s nothing wrong with chains or franchises. You have to admire the systems they bring and the consistency they deliver. It’s nice to know, especially when traveling, that you’ll get a menu item prepared exactly the same regardless of location.
However, there’s something to be said about a family who makes their dream come true using their recipes and every penny they have or borrowed. They support their community through sponsoring teams and donating to their towns. They don’t have a huge budget for R&D. Their R&D is “make it, serve it and see if they like it”. They risk it all, literally.
I’ve seen much love and support to these two staples in our community. I’ve also seen a lot of “ugh, I never made it over there to try” or “how can they close?! I thought they were doing well”. I truly believe we will see them again, or at least I hope so. If we do, I hope I see that same support.
In these times, no one struggles more than “the little guy” when battling record high rent, taxes, food costs, payroll etc., but also know that no one appreciates it more than “the little guy” when you support them.
To papa’s and Peter’s, we thank you for everything and hope to see you again real soon.
-the Polizzi Family
❤️🖤❤️🖤
