Brooklyn’s DUMBO neighborhood took a moment to celebrate two of its most beloved pizza entrepreneurs. The city’s Department of Transportation officially renamed a portion of Old Fulton Street as “Patsy and Carol Grimaldi Way,” cementing the couple’s legacy in the very streets where they first built their reputation.
From coal‑fired pies to a lasting tribute
Patsy and Carol Grimaldi opened their first coal‑fired pizzeria in 1990, quickly earning a reputation for crisp, flavorful slices that drew diners from across New York City and beyond. Though the original Grimaldi’s Pizza closed its doors in 1998, the couple’s passion for quality pizza never waned.
In 2012, the Grimaldis returned to Old Fulton Street with a new venture, Juliana’s, a restaurant that continues to serve the classic coal‑oven pies that made their name. The new street name acknowledges both the historic contribution of their first shop and the ongoing success of Juliana’s, which has become a staple for locals and tourists alike.
Community response and significance
Neighborhood residents and business owners gathered for a brief ceremony, where city officials presented a commemorative plaque. Many attendees highlighted how the Grimaldis helped shape DUMBO’s identity as a food destination, turning a once‑industrial waterfront into a vibrant culinary hub.
“Patsy and Carol gave DUMBO a flavor that still resonates today,” said a longtime resident who has watched the area evolve over the past three decades. The street renaming serves as a reminder that local entrepreneurship can leave a lasting imprint on a community’s cultural fabric.
What the renaming means for the area
Beyond honoring the Grimaldis, the designation may boost foot traffic for nearby businesses, as visitors often seek out the newly named way to experience the historic pizza lineage. City planners note that such symbolic gestures reinforce neighborhood pride and can encourage further investment in local enterprises.
While the change does not alter any zoning or traffic patterns, the new signage will appear at both ends of the designated stretch, guiding pedestrians and drivers alike. The city’s Department of Transportation confirmed that the installation will be completed within the next few weeks.
Looking ahead
The Grimaldis’ story reflects a broader narrative of Brooklyn’s resurgence: historic neighborhoods revitalizing through family‑run businesses, culinary innovation, and community recognition. As DUMBO continues to attract new residents and tourists, the naming of Patsy and Carol Grimaldi Way stands as a testament to the enduring power of local flavor and entrepreneurial spirit.
Original reporting: Brookhaven News – ABC7 New York — read the source article.
