Back Story: PaPa T's Restaurant

This "interview" about PaPa T's Restaurant at 64 Merrow Rd. in Tolland was conducted by the owner, Patricia Tantillo Fox, filling out this form for Patch and submitting it. It's part of Tolland Patch's new series of business profiles, "The Back Story."

How did you come up with the name?
PaPa T was my Dad, and all my friends called him that when I was growing up. So we named the restaurant after him.

Why choose that location? Why start a business in this town?
I was raised in Tolland, and my family moved here in 1965, so my family and I thought it would be great to open a restaurant/pizzeria in town. The location offered easy access on and off I-84

Briefly, what business are you in?
Serving great food.

What's the most difficult moment or challenge you've faced as a business owner?
I would have to say the long hours, finding good staff and always making sure everything is running smoothly.

Were there any challenges that made you second guess your decision to be an entrepreneur?
You have to have a great deal of discipline and self motivation when you are self employed.

What's been your favorite moment or proudest achievement since opening?
I think we pride ourselves on never losing our customer service, and always serving a consistent product. We also have survived all recessions and made it through 32 years come this May. I would like to thank all my loyal customers for that!

What's the most innovative idea your employees or customers have had that you put into practice?
Pizza by the slice

How do you deal with difficult customers?
We listen, take every complaint seriously and do our best to improve.

How does your business give back or get involved in the community?
We work very closely with all local events to contribute and offer our services.

PaPa T's Restaurant