PITTSBURGH — Sam Caruso is closing out 2021 and closing down what he says is the longest continuously run beer store in Pennsylvania.
“I think so,” he said. “Staying in the same family.”
Caruso’s father, Sam Caruso Sr., opened Sam Caruso Beer Distributor in 1933, just after Prohibition ended. That was two locations and nearly nine decades ago, but the shop has always served loyal North Side customers.
A prior location was deemed a historic landmark by the Mexican War Streets Society.
“I think they appreciate me being here, and I appreciate them,” said Caruso. “Business is pretty good.”
After partnering with his father in 1968 and eventually taking over ownership, Sam is ready for retirement after 53 years of slinging suds.
“It’s [been] a good living,” he said. “[It] put food on the table, raised seven great kids.”
Loyal customers like Kevin Roebuck, Sr., are sad to see the shop close.
They’re going to miss Caruso and his quick wit.
“I live right across the street,” said Roebuck.
“He drinks heavy,” responded Caruso, laughing.
“If anything, I drink light, not heavy,” retorted Roebuck.
Caruso laughingly said, “He drinks Mountain Dew and Pepsi.”
It’s the decades’ worth of laughs and smiles in the shop that the Caruso family will miss most.
But they have a lifetime of photos and memories to cherish.
“We have a lot of memories,” said Caruso’s son Rick. “You can tell from customers that come in that Dad’s an icon in this area. It’s bittersweet. It’s good that he’s ready to retire. It’s time.”
At 81, it’s a well-deserved retirement.
“I’m going to enjoy it,” said Caruso.
He is looking forward to playing golf, traveling and spending more time with his family.
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