The taste of Philadelphia sports came alive late one night in 1987. An argument and a brotherly brawl over mom’s unique gravy at 4 am in the Ciarrocchi household, led to what is now the unique Chickie’s & Pete’s zesty cuisine. With a mother’s ingredients, a respected family business, and Pete’s own tried, tested, and perfected French fry reinvention, Crabfries®, Pete Ciarrocchi was destined for success.
The story began a decade earlier when, 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 10 locations across Philadelphia and New Jersey and was voted ESPN’s #1 Sports Bar on the East Coast.
In late 2009, Pete unveiled his “reinvention of the sports bar,” PLAY². This trademarked concept… where you don’t just watch sports on TV, you become the sport… has massive momentum and is our platform for growth.
