Russo family celebrates 50 Years at Gargiulo’s Restaurant

After half a century, the family that owns a Coney Island restaurant that remains a strong fixture in the community celebrated the accomplishment with a ceremony and open house to display the newly renovated facility.

Gargiulo’s Restaurant, 2911 West 15th Street, was the site of the Wednesday, November 25 celebration for the Russo family, which has owned the restaurant that originally opened in 1907, for 50 years.

The storied restaurant’s co-owner Nino Russo found the day satisfying. “It meant a lot to me, personally. I’ve never worked anywhere else,” he said. “It’s always been a goal of mine to make the restaurant the best it can be. It’s been great to be with family working together to get the job done.”

Despite the long-standing success the eatery has experienced, there have also been hardships. Superstorm Sandy caused significant damage to the establishment, resulting in a renovation that has enhanced the experience for patrons. According to Russo, the new décor embraces the facility’s traditional charm while also exhibiting a modern flair.

“We’ve historically been through a lot at Gargiulo’s,” he said. “Coney has been through its ups and downs through through the years. With that and Superstorm Sandy, it has been really difficult.”