FRANK KABATAS and EAST VILLAGE PIZZA'S SUCCESS JOURNEY

Frank Kabatas, the owner of East Village Pizza in New York City, shared his journey from being born in Turkey to becoming a successful pizza maker in the United States. He explained that after moving to the US at age 23 in 1997, he initially worked at East Village Pizza before being fired after six months. He then found a job at Ben's Pizzeria, where he learned valuable pizza-making skills. Frank emphasized his pride in owning East Village Pizza and his determination to succeed.

Frank shared his journey in the pizza industry, starting with a local pizzeria where he learned the craft and worked long hours while studying English as a second language and briefly computer science. After the pizzeria was sold, he transitioned to Domino's in Long Island, initially as a driver but soon became a manager due to his pizza-making skills. Despite the differences between the local and chain pizzerias, Frank valued the experience gained at Domino's, particularly in marketing, which he applied in his subsequent role making pizza in Manhattan and the West Village.

Frank's Pizza Journey and Passion

Frank shared his journey of purchasing East Village Pizza in 2003 with his brother, emphasizing the importance of courage and happiness in achieving life goals. He discussed his passion for making pizza, particularly his signature margarita pizza, and highlighted the significance of using high-quality ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and his own secret recipe for the sauce. Frank also mentioned his other popular menu items, such as double-stack pizza and cheese and garlic knots, and expressed his LOVE for a margarita pizza.

https://www.eastvillagepizza.net

LEAH BEN and OLD CITY DISTRICT'S HOLIDAY EVENTS and ANNOUNCEMENTS

Leah, the Director of Marketing for Old City District, joined Amaris to discuss the upcoming holiday season and events in Old City. They talked about the history and current state of Old City, including recent restaurant accolades and new businesses. Leah explained the evolution of the holiday shopping event into a "sip and stroll," combining shopping with dining and entertainment opportunities. They also discussed the importance of walkable cities and the collaboration between shops and restaurants to attract visitors.

Leah discussed the upcoming HOLIDAY SHOPPING SIP & STROLL EVENT with open streets in Old City on December 6th from 12-4pm, featuring carolers, a Snow Queen on stilts, and a brass band, while Amaris highlighted the historic aspects like horse tethering bars and the Betsy Ross house chocolate demonstration. The holiday shopping sip and stroll will feature nearly 40 businesses offering promotions, including Cuba Libre's $4 espresso martini and mango cinnamon butter, while the Elfreth’s Alley fundraiser offers decorated home tours and discounts at participating restaurants.

https://www.oldcitydistrict.org

RAGINI PARMAR and NATURE'S VIN

Lastly, Amaris spoke with Ragini Parmar, who owns the natural wine bar and marketplace called Nature's VIN in Wayne, Pennsylvania. Ragini shared her background in tech and how she transitioned to opening Nature's VIN, which celebrates women in wine and the broader community. They discussed the differences between natural, organic, and biodynamic wines, as well as the bar's offerings, including tastings, classes, and gift options. Ragini emphasized the bar's focus on sustainability, digital experiences, and supporting women-owned businesses.

Ragini also strongly believes in the philosophy of making wine accessible to everyone, for that reason she wanted to make sure to have transparency with the items you will find within her business' marketplace. You can also find more information about the products, the makers, and more by using the tablets provided to you while you shop.

https://www.naturesvin.com