‘Iconic’ Larry’s P.X. Reopens

CHATHAM – At 6 a.m. last Wednesday, the regulars were waiting for the doors to open at the newly renovated Larry’s P.X. at the Shop Ahoy Plaza in West Chatham.

 The iconic diner reopened following a nine-month closure after a vehicle drove through the front door, stopping just short of the kitchen. Several people were hurt, including one staff member who suffered serious injuries.

 But on Sept. 17, the mood was more celebratory than somber as fans of Larry’s gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremony at the eatery’s newly rebuilt front entrance.

 “There are some iconic businesses in Chatham,” said Chatham Merchants Association board director Barry Desilets. “You think of Chatham Bars Inn, you think of the Squire, you think of the Candy Manor, and you also think of Larry’s P.X. This is a monumental occasion for us in Chatham.”

 “Everybody loves this institution,” said Select Board Chair Dean Nicastro before reading a citation from the board welcoming the reopening and offering best wishes for success.

 Co-owner Jay Case thanked the town for its support for the businesses and for its employees.

 “It takes a village, and this town stepped up,” he said. He credited the Pals For Life Foundation for “keeping our employees alive through the winter,” along with his wife Sue and himself, through their financial assistance. A benefit at the Knots Landing restaurant also raised tens of thousands to help Larry’s workers and owners make it through the closure.

 “In January!” Case said. “What little town does that? It’s crazy.”

 As patrons happily ate their favorite breakfasts inside, he added: “It’s been a long road — a long road — and Sue and I are so happy.”