BALTIMORE – A Baltimore pizza restaurant is set to stay open through the holidays and far beyond, thanks to a generous donation from Dave Portnoy, the founder of Barstool Sports. During one of his well-known pizza reviews, Portnoy visited TinyBrickOven, located in the heart of Baltimore, where he learned about the restaurant's struggles to remain afloat.
Will Fagg, the enthusiastic owner of TinyBrickOven, detailed the dire circumstances driving his business to the brink of closure. The restaurant had been unable to secure a liquor license, significantly affecting its revenue. "It’s been crazy," Fagg told Portnoy, clearly overwhelmed by the thought of shutting down his establishment.
Portnoy, known for scoring pizzas in his signature style, sampled the shop’s culinary offerings and rated the reheated pizza at 7.9 out of 10. It was during this tasting, he initiated a discussion about the future of the pizza shop. "What would it take to keep this place open for a year?" he asked, throwing out the opportunity for Fagg to state his needs.
Fagg hesitated, not wanting to overstate the severity of his need, but eventually settled on needing $60,000 to keep the doors of TinyBrickOven open. "Oh my God, this is unbelievable," Fagg exclaimed when Portnoy instantly agreed, promising him the funds by Christmas.
This heartening moment occurred on December 13, just days before the scheduled closure date. Recounting their interaction, Fagg could hardly contain his gratitude. "Thank you, Dave Portnoy! We’ve had his name on our wall for over four years!" he shared on social media.
Indeed, Portnoy’s direct and swift action speaks volumes not only about his character but also about his commitment to aiding small businesses—especially pizzerias. His acts of charity are not new; he had made similar contributions during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, aiming to keep struggling businesses afloat.
Born from this interaction was also the potential for TinyBrickOven to expand its mission. Fagg proudly noted the restaurant’s commitment to feeding the homeless. More than 1,000 people have already benefited from their initiative, which ensures no one goes without at least one meal. "This funding means even more will get fed," Fagg asserted, hopeful about the future.
This encounter was not merely about keeping the restaurant open; it affirmed the values of community and compassion, especially during the holiday season. With Portnoy’s donation secured, the restaurant is positioned not just to endure, but to thrive and carry on its charitable work, much to Fagg’s relief. The money will aid not only the operational costs of the restaurant but will also help secure the elusive liquor license, enabling them to increase profitability.
The barstool founder’s pizza reviews have shown measurable effects on the eateries he visits, often resulting in increased patronage. Given the exposure and now the financial backing, TinyBrickOven might find itself at the center of renewed attention, both locally and online.
“There’s no way this place should be going out of business, none,” Portnoy insisted during his review, echoing the sentiments of the community. His belief has become reality, with many rooting for the little pizzeria to succeed.
Fagg’s story is one of determination and community spirit, reflective of many small business owners who face constant challenges. The support from figures like Portnoy and the goodwill of the public can spell the difference between closing down or keeping the hope and service alive.
Reflecting on the outpouring of support, Fagg remarked, “It feels like this story has really struck a chord with the public.” It’s not just about pizza; it's about community, resilience, and the willingness to help each other during tough times.
On social media, the story of Portnoy’s remarkable generosity quickly gained traction, embodying the spirit of the holidays and showing how one person's actions can spark hope and change. This Christmas, Dave Portnoy wasn’t just scoring pizzas; he was playing Santa Claus to TinyBrickOven, ensuring Christmas miracles could happen through kindness and generosity.
Thanks to the support of Portnoy, the future looks bright for TinyBrickOven. Perhaps it’s time for the community to rally even more, embracing their beloved neighborhood pizzeria and helping secure its legacy. After all, it's not just about keeping the oven hot; it’s about keeping the spirit of giving alive—a true Christmas miracle.
