Profiles In Business Excellence:
ARCARO & GENELL

     For almost a half century, Arcaro & Genell Italian Restaurant, in Old Forge, has welcomed customers with its famous homemade pizza and full menu of Italian dishes. Brothers and co-owners Angelo and Mark Genell began working for their father when they were young. Angelo helped cater clam bakes by loading and unloading the trucks.
      "The next thing you know, it's in your blood," he said.
      The restaurant was opened in 1962 by their parents, Angelo and Marie, and Marie's two brothers. A 1949 photograph of Angelo and Marie hangs on the wall, as well as paintings of chefs holding Italian food items and Italian words and phrases. A full bar with seating up to 12 and booths and tables comprise the dining area.
      "I've been doing this for 30 years," said Angelo. "I am doing weddings for people who I helped with their christenings."
      Their customers are considered "family" at the restaurant.
      "We try to treat everyone who comes in like they're coming into our house," Angelo said.
      The restaurant has been mentioned in USA Today for its perfection of double-crust white, tomato-less pizza.
      In addition to the Genell's famous homemade pizza, the menu includes numerous homemade Italian dishes such as Penne Pasta Marinara or ala Vodka and Linguini or Risotto Pescatore.
      An additional kitchen area will soon be added and will serve as a place where customers can take home Arcaro & Genell's famous homemade raviolis, sauces, and desserts.
      "It will be a take-away area where you can purchase products that we make, frozen or fresh," said Angelo. "There is no need to call ahead, you can just come in."
      Annette Symosh, a waitress at Arcaro and Genell's for 40 years, is one of Angelo and Mark's many loyal employees.
      "The people here are wonderful, and it's a good business with excellent food," she said.
      Over the past four decades, the restaurant has retained its tradition for great quality food and friendly service. It opens at 11 a.m. from Tuesday-Friday for lunch and dinner. Monday and Saturday hours are 3-11 p.m. It is closed Sunday for private parties and catering. For more information, visit www.arcaroandgennell.com.