Pizza Shop Owner In Enfield Chooses 'Safety' Over 'Profit'

ENFIELD, CT — When Gov. Ned Lamont instituted restrictions on nearly every business in Connecticut in response to the growing coronavirus pandemic, restaurants were deemed essential to the citizens of each community, though they were limited to delivery and curbside pickups only. For Dominic's On the Ave, a new pizza place which opened in February on Route 190 in Enfield, the directive meant little change was necessary, as the shop caters to takeout orders only.

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Terms such as "social distancing" have suddenly appeared in the American lexicon, as the practice of staying at least six feet away from others and avoiding large groups is said to be key to helping control the spread of the virus.

Despite maintaining profitability during the current crisis, Dominic's owner Joe Zucco has opted to temporarily shut down his new business, effective Monday night. He spent Tuesday afternoon giving out free pizzas.

Though the governor's edict allows restaurants to remain open, while at the same time barring in-house dining, Zucco decided to close because, "I can't in good conscience continue to profit due to others' misery."

He did not indicate any expectations that other owners would follow his lead; instead, he said he decided to give away food "as my way of giving back to the community which has welcomed us so warmly."