Bali Pork Store Closes After 55 Years in Bensonhurst
This Saturday, June 29th, the Bali Pork Store, a beloved Italian deli in Brooklyn’s Bensonhurst neighborhood, will serve its last slice of gabagool. After operating since 1969, this family-owned business is bidding farewell.
Co-owner George Phillantello expressed his deep sense of loss over the closure. “It feels like I’m losing a significant part of my life,” he shared. He mentioned that the decision was unavoidable.
“Some customers are heartbroken,” Firantello noted. “They ask, ‘Oh, you guys are leaving?’ No, we didn’t leave; we just have to go.” The shift in Bensonhurst’s demographics—once a haven for Italian-American businesses—has impacted foot traffic and sales.
Earlier this month marked the closing of another neighborhood favorite, SAS Italian Records, which had been around since 1967. Firantello reflected on the dwindling number of customers visiting his store, which he has co-managed with Tony Turligiano for 26 years.
“It’s touching to know how much this store means to people. I’ve seen kids grow up and now have kids of their own. We’ve really supported families here over the years,” he added.
Despite the owners receiving offers to reduce the rent to help keep the place running, Firantello explained that the expenses were still too high. “I keep thinking, how little could I reduce it? What difference would it really make?” he said.
The partners did contemplate selling the business, but Firantello admitted, “There wasn’t much interest.” This situation reflects broader changes within the community.
Italian pork stores are unique, offering everything from sandwiches to pantry staples, with a personal touch that many local customers cherish. “Butchers usually know their customers by name,” said Anthony “Tony Manzia” Syria, an influencer focusing on Italian businesses in the Tri-State area.
Notably, Bali Pork Store has had its share of famous patrons, including actors from “The Sopranos.” “They had connections to the community. Customers always felt at home here,” said Syria, adding that the quality of products is often superior to that found in large supermarkets.
Specializing in fresh mozzarella and unique sausages, the store has become known for its rich recipes and customer relationships. Firantello remarked, “I’m taking these memories with me.” The shop has altered the landscape of the neighborhood significantly.
Even though some shops in the city, like Faccio’s and Emily’s, are thriving, old-fashioned pork stores are slowly diminishing. For instance, G. Esposito and Son, in Carroll Gardens, closed after a century of business this year, alongside the death of Mario Zollo, who had a storied history in Williamsburg.
The impact is significant—many younger generations are not following their families into these traditional establishments, which has left a gap in community support. Reigalini, who documents Italian neighborhoods, announced Bali’s closure in a heartfelt video, calling it one of the hardest experiences in his work.
“The neighborhood has changed so much. It’s like we can’t keep up,” Turrigiano mentioned in the video, capturing the emotions of many viewers who reminisced about their experiences at the store.
On their final day, Firantello doesn’t expect grand celebrations. “Hopefully, it won’t take long. I just want to take some photos with my partner,” he said, looking ahead to a quiet transition. “Then I plan to spend some time with my wife and explore job opportunities.”
