Chris Farrar, left, former owner Ari’s Pizza and Subs in Norway, is all smiles during his last day in the kitchen April 21. He has sold the business to family friend and chef Alex White. Also pictured from left, employees Tamsyn Beaudet, Derek Shelton and Alicia Plummer. Nicole Carter/Advertiser Democrat
NORWAY — After 34 years serving great food on Main Street, Ari’s Pizza and Subs has closed its doors. Owner Chris Farrar is trading his pizza duties for grandfather time.
Ari’s Pizza and Subs on Main Street in Norway closed April 21. The Denlinger-Linscott family of Norway made a point to have dinner on closing night. Pictured from left, Maverick Denlinger, 4, Matthew Linscott, 12, Riley Linscott, 8, Chris Denlinger and Kelly Denlinger. The restaurant will re-open under new ownership. Nicole Carter/Advertiser Democrat
“I’ve been doing this seven days a week, and I just knew it was time,” Farrar told the Advertiser Democrat Tuesday morning as he was at work again — this time clearing out for new ownership. “I’ve been thinking about this for two or three years.”
Last fall he went from thought to discussion with family friend Alex White, who has been the X-Vault’s chef since that restaurant opened in 2017. Farrar approached White last fall and the two struck a deal.
“Alex is going to do well,” Farrar said. “I don’t know what he has planned but he’s bringing new blood, new ideas and new energy.”
The sale was finalized on Thursday and, by Friday, Farrar’s next role as grandfather expanded: his son’s family welcomed new daughter Rhylan. She, along with her older cousins Keegan and Carter, will make up his new crew.
“I’ve missed a lot of time (running Ari’s),” Farrar summed it up. “It’s time to slow down and enjoy life.”
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