[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 174 (Tuesday, November 15, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2047]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING PETE CIARROCCHI

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROBERT A. BRADY

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 15, 2011

  Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Pete 
Ciarrocchi, the founder of a Philadelphia institution--Chickie's and 
Pete's.
  In 1977, Peter and Henrietta Ciarrocchi bought the Robbins Avenue 
taproom in the Mayfair neighborhood of Philadelphia. Young Pete 
followed his parents' example and served the regulars with a smile. He 
was and still is a friend to all. Growing up Pete ran with both jocks 
and rockers. He could change minds, influence peers, and even reinvent 
taste. In 1987, Pete made sure his parents' legacy lived on. Pete 
became the face of Chickie's & Pete's with the help of his brother, 
Tom. His charisma, dynamic personality, and great food were enough to 
bring in the crowds on Sunday to celebrate, jeer, and be Philadelphia. 
Pete understood the pulse of the city: food, sports, and people.
  In 1998, the Vet, the once home of the ``Iggles'' and the ``Phightin' 
Phils'' became Pete's new home and kingdom. Led by his proprietary 
Crabfries, the Mayfair family business became a fan favorite 
concession. Pete's infectious energy and impressive cuisine became his 
recipe for success. From Andy Reid's late night meetings, ``taxi 
crabbing'' Eagles players from airport to complex, to mixing it up with 
Oprah and Jon Bon Jovi, Pete Ciarrocchi's success has exploded. The 
Chickie's & Pete's hometown flavor has expanded to 8 locations across 
Philadelphia and New Jersey and was voted ESPN's #1 Sports Bar on the 
East Coast.
  Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Pete Ciarrocchi today for the 
lasting impact he has made on Philadelphia, and I ask that you and my 
other distinguished colleagues join me in honoring him.

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