Paolo’s Pizzeria, Mahopac
By Elena Castriota
For brothers Mario and Angelo Krasniqi, pizza is a family affair. The two have worked for and owned several pizzerias together in the Bronx for more than 25 years before buying Paolo’s Pizzeria in March of 2014.
“We’ve been in the business for over twenty years,” Angelo explained, “We came from the Bronx and wanted to bring city pizza to Putnam County.”
The two brothers came to New York from Europe as teenagers, which is where they got their start in the pizza business. With their hard-working immigrant mentality, they made it their mission to learn the ins and outs of the pizza business so they could one day have their own.
And they did.
Together they bought Jerome’s Pizza in Bedford Park in the early 2000s. The business was a huge success partly because of the way they treated their customers. “We treat every customer like we treat ourselves, like family,” Mario said. However, after moving their families to Putnam Valley, the commute became too much to handle. They sold the business to a cousin before buying Paolo’s last year.
Even though they’re no longer in the Bronx, much of the food they use still comes from the city. “We use the top of the line products,” Angelo said, “We spare no expense when it comes to the food that we buy.”
The restaurant offers a classic pizzeria menu with specialty slices, wedges, pasta, and seafood. There are several salads and wraps for those looking for a lighter option. And for dessert-lovers, they offer cannoli, zeppole, and a summer favorite, Italian ice. The restaurant also offers free delivery.
Mario’s sons, Eddie and Albert, have also taken an interest in the business. “I love this business so much,” Eddie explained, “It’s what I’m going to school to do.”
He and his brother have been working with their father since they were kids.
“My dad would leave for work after I went to school and didn’t get home until late at night,” he said, “I didn’t mind working at the restaurant because it was time I got to spend with my dad.”
The sons hope to continue their family’s business together in the future just as the older Krasniqi brothers have.
“We love this community and we wanted to give back to it,” Angelo concluded, “We serve great food for great people.”
Paolo’s Pizzaeria is located 997 Route 6 in Mahopac. Its number is 845-628-6175.
