FERRARO FOODS OF NEW YORK CUSTOMER SPOTLIGHT
1692 Merrick Rd, Merrick, NY 11566
(516) 377-9500
tomatoandbasilpizzeria.com
@tomatoandbasilpizzeria
History: Frank started his career in the pizza industry at the young age of 16 when he began working in his friend’s pizzeria washing dishes. Frank worked his way up from dishwasher to food preparation and beyond, opening his first pizzeria in 1993. His grandparents came to America from Sicily. They owned a small Italian deli on the Lower East Side, of New York City. His Grandmother was always a phenomenal cook and served as Frank’s inspiration for opening a pizzeria. Today Frank runs Tomato & Basil, opened in 2002, located in Merrick, NY with the help of his two sons, daughter, and a loyal staff, some of which have been with him for 15 years.
What is the most popular item on the menu? Customer’s favorites include Neopolitan pizza, penne alla vodka, and their chopped salad with homemade balsamic vinaigrette. Frank makes over 25 different specialty pies daily.
What sets Tomato & Basil apart from the competition? The relationships Frank cultivates with his customers is what makes Tomato & Basil special. He treats his customers like family and it shows. He even has 2 customers that have been coming to him since his start in 1993. Frank also likes to help out in the community whenever possible. During the COVID crisis and super storm Sandy he made many food donations to hospitals, churches and schools in the community.
Any advice for other restaurant owners? Frank’s advice to other restaurant owners is to stay true to who you are by not compromising on quality products and by staying consistent. Treat your employees right to avoid high turnover because even if you keep your ingredients the same, different people making your food will result in different tastes and customers will notice.
