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Pontillo's location sold to real estate developer

By Howard B. Owens

A Rochester-based real estate developer has acquired the old Pontillo's building at 500 E. Main St., Batavia.

Thomas Masachi said today that he isn't ready yet -- perhaps next week -- to discuss the plans he and his partners have for the location. 

Masachi, who is in the RIT Hall of Fame for his success in hockey and lacrosse, would not discuss the price he paid for the location, and that information has not yet become publicly available.

One of Western New York's most legendary pizzerias, Pontillo's closed in November 2008 after falling behind more than $112,000 in its taxes. John Pontillo made an attempt to buy the business and location out of probate, but he said his offers were rejected. The property was then sold at auction to a bank in Rochester, which in turn sold the property to Masachi.

For his part, John Pontillo is continuing to work on a plan to open a new pizzeria in Batavia. Reached yesterday, he said he hasn't settled on a location yet.

Meanwhile, Sam Pontillo continues to operate a Pontillo's Pizzeria in Le Roy on Main Street.

Ken Rumble

What a shame. Let me guess another drug store. Mr. Masachi if you read this understand that Pontillo's Pizzeria is an icon in Batavia. Pontillo's was an old friend, a gathering place and the oldest pizza place in Batavia. Sam & Betty must be turning over. Please try to find somone to open this great establishment back up as the sign says.

Jan 26, 2010, 6:42pm Permalink
Jennifer Richenberg

I think that everyone should realize that the Pontillo's in East Main Street is gone forever, Mr. Masachi does not have any right to the Pontillo name and will not be able to operate a Pontillo's at that location. And as for the location in LeRoy some one should look into the last time those property taxes were paid. That will soon be a memory also.

Jan 26, 2010, 8:14pm Permalink
bud prevost

Jennifer said "And as for the location in LeRoy some one should look into the last time those property taxes were paid. That will soon be a memory also. "

Serious allegation. Do you have some sort of proof to backup your claim? Or is this a case of malicious gossipping by a disgruntled former employee? My guess is the latter.

Jan 26, 2010, 9:19pm Permalink
Amy Davis

I see that the family "homestead" on Vernon now posts a "sold" sign also. It's all very sad, I will miss the restaurant that Sam Sr. & Betty worked all of their lives to build, not to mention the terrific pizza! A big loss for Batavia.

Please, no more drug stores...

Jan 26, 2010, 11:04pm Permalink

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