Merging old fashion flavors with modern combinations

Using the experience he gained from working for local pizzerias including Santoras and Avenue, helped Owner of T.C. Jr’s Pizza and Subs, Tom Iannello Jr., launch his own business just over 18 years ago.

In 1993, after his father Tom Iannello Sr. chose to purchase the building located at 2941 Delaware Ave., Kenmore, where he planned to start a pizzeria on his own, but was unsuccessful, Tom Jr. chose to step in and pick up where his father left off.

Now celebrating its 19th year of business at the same location, T.C. Jr’s - named after a the nickname [Tommy Carl Jr.] his father’s friends often gave to Tom Jr. - the business is still successfully serving old fashion brick oven pizzas to the Kenmore, North Buffalo and Tonawanda communities.

“I poured my heart and soul, and all my money into creating this business,” said Tom Jr., “We actually have done well right from the beginning.”

After one-year of renovations and remodeling, T.C. Jr’s Pizza and Subs was up and running.

“I work all day and all night,” said Tom Jr., who is often the sole person running the day-to-day operations. “I still do all the dirty work, from the bottom to the top. I have some good people with me. They definitely do stuff to help, but I am here if they need me.”

From morning to close seven days a week, Tom spends his time preparing fresh, homemade dough and sauce; cutting meats to order; purchasing fresh produce from Boulevard Produce, Youngs Road, Kenmore; and using only top of the line products with the best ingredients.

“I don’t skip out on any ingredients or cut any corners,” said Tom Jr., who believes being engrossed in your business and working hands on is key to running a successful, long-term business.

One way Tom Jr. is able to cut back on costs is by running most aspects of the business by himself. Although he does have a few loyal employees, who he greatly appreciates, he often takes orders; makes deliveries; cleans and cooks on his own.

Although the prices of produce and products have gone up significantly over the past 20 years, Tom Jr. does not allow his customers wallets to see the effect of those costs. His prices remain competitive, while the flavor of the food remains top notch.

“We do more for less and every order is made to order,” said Tom Jr. “Nothing is made ahead of time and our salads are made fresh with fresh lettuce every time.”

Staying true to tradition, T.C. Jr’s still offers old fashion brick oven pizzas that are made-to-order, plus free delivery all day and all night.

Menu items include:

• Lunch specials including a whole sub, French fries and a soda for $8 after taxes; or two slices of pizza with a soda for $4.50.

• Combination specials: a sheet of pizza and 50 wings for $41 after taxes.

• Some top items for Subs: a Hit man Sub; Deluxe Assorted; White Pizza Sub; Taco Sub; or an Egg Surprise (egg and pepperoni).

• Gourmet Pizzas: White Pizza, Taco Pizza, Steak Pizza, Cheeseburger Pizza with ketchup, or a Chicken Finger Pizza

New to the menu:

• Half sheet of cheese pizza with one topping costs $13.79

• Half sheet of cheese pizza with one topping and 25 wings costs $27.59

Hours of operation: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sundays through Wednesdays and from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays. To place an order visit T.C. Jr’s at 2941 Delaware Ave., Kenmore or call 874-1876. You can also find the pizzeria on facebook.

* The late Tom Ianello Sr. may not have had a knack for making pizza pies; however, he was well known in the community as an organist. The last organ Tom Sr. played is on display at T.C. Jr’s.