Sept. 2, 2015 By Michael Florio
After 34 years in business a new owner has taken over a popular 37th Avenue pizzeria.
Mario’s Pizzeria & Restaurant opened on Saturday at 77-09 37th Ave, taking over the business from Gustosa Pizza.
Hernan Reyes and his son, Andres Francisco, bought the business after the previous owner decided it was time to retire.
Francisco, who will serve as the manager of Mario’s Pizzeria, said the former owner prepped them prior to opening, and has been popping in from time to time to see how they are doing.
“He helped us prepare for what to expect,” Francisco said. “I think that was him giving us his blessing.”
The interior design of the pizzeria has not changed with the new ownership. Francisco said he wanted to make sure that the pizzeria continues to have the old look and feel of yesteryear.
The menu will consist of traditional pizzeria items such as a regular pie, Sicilian pizza, grandma slices, garlic knots, chicken rolls, mozzarella sticks, and salads.
However, he does plan to make some changes—although they are largely to the menu.
For instance, they are considering adding specialty slices. One item would be called the Colorado slice, which would have game meat such as deer or rabbit.
Francisco also plans on applying for a liquor license and installing two beer taps. He wants to serve a locally brew, such as Brooklyn Lager, and a seasonal beer. He plans to install two TV’s as well.
“People can come watch the game and have a beer,” he said. “We want to be a relaxing community hangout.”
The pizzeria will be open from 10 am to 10 pm, seven days a week.
Featured Events
