Updated, July 26
After twenty years of serving what many consider to be the Island’s “best slice,” longtime owner Chris Pantalone has decided to sell the iconic waterfront pizzeria, Rocco’s Pizzeria.
The Vineyard Haven eatery, favored by both locals and tourists alike, is once again listed for sale. Last year, we reported that it was on the market for $2.375 million. A possible deal in the works apparently failed to come together and so once again the owner has a for sale sign up this time for $2.4 million, as a “turn-key” business.
Pantalone is hoping a new owner will build upon the tradition they have established; one employee at the pizzeria gave The Times some advice for potential buyers: “make sure they can make a good pizza… quickly!”
While speed and quality are essential for success in the competitive pizza business, aspiring restaurateurs on the island face other significant challenges, such as finding full-time staff and the perennial struggle to find housing for employees. Despite these obstacles, the demand for great food and drink on the Vineyard remains extremely strong, and Rocco’s strength is its location with ample parking and a roof-top dining area.
The Tisbury Market property, listed by Ocean Park Realty, also includes two condo units with sea views. There’s also a top-deck seating area, commercial equipment, fixtures, and furnishings that come with the restaurant business.
Updated to reflect the actual owner of the pizzeria.
Chris has wanted out for quite some time. I guess the best I can say is, I want whatever it is he wants but I will be sorry to see him take his hands off of the business…IMO, he makes the best pizza on the Island.
This is a good article about a really great pizzeria. In my opinion
the best on the island.
But there is one incorrect detail.
Chris and Peter dissolved their joint ownership years ago, and Chris has been the
sole owner for years. I certainly don’t know any of the details about why Peter is no longer involved. But I do know that Chris has been dedicated to the business and has
worked his ass off to make the magic happen there. We take it for granted that when we
order a pizza or a sandwich that we will get it in short order, and it will be delicious and safe.
That doesn’t happen without a lot of hard work, good management, and dedicated employees.
Yeah, it’s just a pizza joint, but this one truly embodies the spirit of the vineyard.
I sincerely hope that any future owner can live up to the standards that Chris has established.
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