Popular West Pittston eatery reopened Friday after being flooded in September By Tony Callaio
Dispatch Correspondent
As patrons streamed into his restaurant for its reopening on Friday morning, Joe Agolino, the owner of Agolino’s Family Restaurant in West Pittston, said with his voice noticeably emotional, “This is a great day in my life.” Agolino has lived in West Pittston for more than 60 years. He is the father of four children and has been through and seen a lot in his life, but the ordeal of bringing his restaurant back after the September flood was monumental. “My dad planted the seed, but I, with the help of many family and friends, have been able to fertilize this restaurant,” said Agolino. It’s been nearly three months since the September flood poured 7 1/2 feet of water and mud in the dining room and kitchen of the iconic Garden Village eatery. But now, with the grand reopening, Agolino’s is back. “It’s been overwhelming to say the least and thanks to a lot of people from friends, to the borough, to the county and of course to the customers, I don’t think I’d be able to do this,” continued Agolino. Joe’s brother Sam couldn’t be happier for his brother, the town, and the customers that have been loyal to the business. “It’s bittersweet in a way not having my parents here to see how hard my brother persevered to get the restaurant back open,” said Sam. “I marvel at his resilience and not one nail or screw was reused, evSee AGOLINO'S, Page 32
SUNDAY DISPATCH, SUNDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2011
Business as usual at Agolino’s restaurant
Little Gabby Agolino, granddaughter of Joe and Camelina (behind Gabby), does the honors of cutting the ribbon to the reopening of Agolino's Family Restaurant Friday in West Pittston. PHOTOS BY TONY CALLAIO
Jack Joyce, left, has the distinction of being the first customer, along with his mom Janet, for the reopening.
Dana Magyar serves up a very happy Bill Yoemans his breakfast special
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Joe Bellino, Atty. Michael Butera, Billy Joyce, Frank Schevets and Bobby Faber seem to be at home at the newly located counter.