For over 30 years, Harry’s Pizza & Subs remains a beloved eatery amongst residents and visitors alike. The renowned family-owned business claims to sell the “best New York pizza in town” with many loyal customers eager to back up that statement. Known for maintaining an environment that feels like stepping into the past, the staff continues to use old registers, handwrite food orders/tickets, and hand make all their own food. The spousal owners have even had their two kids working at the restaurant since they were young children. But earlier this year, the family establishment was forced to close their doors to the public.
On Jan. 8, the restaurant suffered a severe kitchen fire that left them unable to operate and serve customers. This is a first for the owners who have never once closed their doors, always serving orders to their supportive customers.
“In over 30 years, we have never closed. Even during COVID, we were able to continue serving takeout orders and our customers would drive from near and far to help support us,” Co-Owner Ilene Kapper Oxman said. “The last few weeks have been really hard while we deal with our insurance company and try to get the funds to get back open and serving our community.”
Unfortunately, the insurance funds are not coming as easily as they anticipated. To help get their business back on track, the family has looked to generous donations from customers and supporters to help rebuild and re-open. The restaurant currently has an active GoFundMe to help pay their staff along with the numerous expenses.
“Dealing with insurance is a long and arduous process,” Ilene said. “We are family owned and operated. So, myself, my husband, and my son feel lost without going to Harry’s every day and serving our customers; many of whom we see regularly.”
Named after Ilene’s father-in-law, the restaurant has continuously garnered local support over the years. Alternatively, with the doors currently being closed, customers can also support Rich and Ilene by visiting their other restaurant, Reunion Kitchen & Bar on Johnson Ferry Road. Being no strangers to satisfying hungry customers, many of them are giving back and helping to restore the eatery that has served them for so many years.
“My son loves their pizza,” said Laren Brown, Editor of the East Cobber Magazine. “My sons often go out with me to deliver the issues of the magazine, and my youngest son always volunteers to take in the magazines to Harry’s and always comes out with a slice.”
As the insurance company continues to lengthen the reopening process, Rich and Ilene are fighting to reopen the doors to Harry’s once again and return to serve. To remain updated on their status, follow them on Instagram at www. instagram.com/harryspizzaandsubs/. To make a donation, visit gofund.me/9da2aa65.
