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The editor is John Ryan at email: perugazette@gmail.com. The Peru Gazette is a free community, education and information website. It is non-commercial and does not accept paid advertising.

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Longtime Pasquale’s Chefs Are Now Owners

Pasquales Photo

L-R Jerry Johnson and David Hamilton

By John T. Ryan

Peru – On January 1, 2016 Jerry Johnson and David Hamilton took on a new role at Pasquale’s Restaurant and Sports Bar. They became co-owners of the business. Both men are longtime head chefs at the extremely popular eatery that Scott Bazzano operated since 2004. Dave Hamilton said, “Scott would joke asking us why we didn’t buy the business. A few months ago he showed us the business numbers and they worked out. Jerry and I had been talking about owning a restaurant for years.”

Both Johnson and Hamilton are Peru natives. They graduated from Peru High School in the early 90’s and have worked in the restaurant industry ever since. Jerry Johnson recalled, “I started as a dishwasher at the Royal Savage and Valcour Lodge. I got hooked on it.” He went on to become head chef at the respected Windows on the Bay in Plattsburgh and Crickets in Peru. In 2007 he became Pasquale’s head chef. Dave Hamilton worked in several restaurants before joining Jerry as a sous chef at Crickets and in 2008 at Pasquale’s.

Needless to say, both men are enthusiastic about their new business opportunity. Hamilton said that they have always taken a personal interest in the business and ensured that food leaving the kitchen was properly prepared and presented. Asked why Pasquale’s has been so successful, Dave Hamilton said, “I think it’s been our consistency. People know if they liked a meal once they’re going to get another good meal the next time they visit.  People also like our portion size. They know if they can’t eat it all here, they’re going to have lunch the next day.”

Customers have the choice of the Adirondack-Italian atmosphere of the 50-seat dining room or the 30-seat sports bar with its 8 televisions featuring the NFL, NHL and MLB sports packages and New York Lotto. Hamilton said, “The sports bar is a fun atmosphere. We have a wide choice of craft beers along with old time American favorites.” Pasquale’s Romeo chicken wings with their tangy, sweet sauce are definitely best sellers. Hamilton said, “Some people are obsessed with the sauce. I’ve seen people drink it.” Burgers made with Kilcoyne Farms’ high quality, flavorful beef have been an instant hit.

Having grown up locally both men know many Peru residents. Johnson said, “People have been very supportive. We want people to know we’re here to serve the community. We want to contribute back to the community.”

Pasquale’s is located at 2931 Route 22 just across the street from the Tops Plaza. It’s open seven days a week: Monday-Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sunday from noon to 9 p.m. Call 643-0799 for information or reservations.