Acker proclaims ‘Pepi’s Pizza week’ in honor of the longstanding family business

ONEIDA, N.Y. » “I hereby proclaim the week of August 17, 2020, to August 23, 2020, as Pepi’s Pizza week,” said Oneida Mayor Helen Acker before the Common Council meeting on Tuesday, August 18.

Pepi’s is a family run business that started in Oneida on Memorial Day in 1960 on Main Street, and it remains a cherished gem of the community where it is now located on Route 5.

Tony Wojtas, otherwise known as “Papa Tony,” started the pizza legacy that would pass down three generations. He passed away in March of 2009. Chip Noble, a grandson to Papa Tony, is now at the helm of the family operation, taking over after his parents.

Wojitas’ wife, Audrey, accepted Acker’s proclamation on Tuesday along with a large group of family, all excited for recognition from the city.

“[We] extend to Pepi’s Pizza our sincere congratulations on their 60 years of business and wish you many many more years of success here in the city of Oneida,” Acker said.

Pepi’s is known for its quality pizza and other menu items that haven’t changed since the very beginning. Novelties within the restaurant, including pizza tossing, a toy train that circles the dining room, a video game arcade, and hometown atmosphere make Pepi’s a unique destination for families to enjoy.

Many remember the clear tube that went up through the roof in the Pepi’s building years ago. Those passing by could watch from the street as Papa Tony would spin the pizza dough up into the air.

The mayor’s proclamation garnered a standing ovation from the crowd in honor of the Pepi’s family.

CARLY STONE - MEDIANEWS GROUP Oneida Mayor Helen Acker honored members of the Pepi’s Pizza family with “Pepi’s Pizza week” during August 17-23 2020. The proclamation is seen held by Audrey Wojtas, wife of the late Tony Wojtas who founded Pepi’s Pizza.