STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — An iconic Brooklyn fixture is closing its doors this month after almost six decades in business.
Bari Pork Store opened its doors in 1969, serving generations of Bensonhurst residents specialty Italian dishes and premiere cuts of meat.
For the last 26 years, the store has been run by co-owners George Firrantello and Tony Turrigiano.
Firrantello told ABC 7, “I loved what I do. And he [Turrigiano] loves what he does. That’s why he’s still working.”
The reality, though, is that they cannot afford to stay in their 18th Avenue storefront.
Video taken by ABC 7 shows a large sign in the window of the store, with part of it reading: “The current state of steadily decreasing customers patronizing our store, inflation, and the cost of products to stock the store have all contributed to the decision to close. Bari Pork Store has been in constant depreciation, making it increasingly difficult to sustain our business. Unfortunately, the phrase, ‘support your local small business,’ has fallen on many deaf ears.”
“We would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff for their tireless effort, dedication, and hark work throughout the years, and making our loyal customers feel like family. We would also like to express our appreciation and gratitude to our customers for their loyalty and support. We are proud to have served so many families over the years,” the sign continued.
In an interview with ABC 7, Donna Gifford, a regular customer of Bari Pork Store, said this about the store’s closing: “It takes away a little bit of its soul. Authenticity. It’s like my kitchen — it’s an extension of my kitchen.”
Bari Pork Store will shut its doors June 30.