“Exactly one year ago, word first circulated that Manganaro’s, a century-old red sauce emporium on 9th Avenue near 38th Street, would shutter once the owners were able to sell the five story building it occupies, and now Vanishing New York confirms that the time has come, reports NY Eater.com The tables have been removed, the shelves emptied, and a note on the website reads, “As of February 27, 2012, Manganaro Foods will no longer be open in New York City. We will let you know when we re-open.”
“The business started as a wine store in 1893 and expanded into groceries, sandwiches, and red sauce fare during the Prohibition. Business first declined with the arrival of the Lincoln Tunnel and the demolition of much of the neighborhood and declined further in recent times due to increased competition and changing tastes. The store was also famous for a feud with its sister shop, Manganaro’s Hero Boy, which is currently run by the owner’s estranged brother.”