Business Q&A: Potter’s Pub

has served as a neighborhood bar, restaurant and all-around hangout spot since 1972. Mike Amitrano took over as owner in 1990 and says this is what he has wanted to do his whole life.

Patch had a chance to catch up with Amitrano and talk about Potter’s beginnings, specials and much more. Check it out below:

Tell us how Potter’s Pub got started.

Potter’s started in 1972 as a single store and has grown over the 39 years to three stores. We are a bar, a restaurant, off-premise catering and on-premise catering. We also have a wide variety of sports including horse racing. I’ve owned it since 1990.

How did you get into this business?

I started when I was 13 washing dishes. I went to college for restaurant management at Sullivan County. I worked in a chain for a while and then got my own restaurant.

What makes East Meadow a great place to own a business?

The amount of people, the accessibility to the city and the Coliseum.

What special services do you offer?

We have our two for $20 menu going on that is an appetizer and two entrees – all day and all night. We do lunch specials starting at $5.95 and have a Sunday brunch. We also have a football special package starting on September 11.

What is the most popular dish?

One of our most popular is our Potter Burger, which is a handmade half-pound burger with bacon and cheese, cole slaw, choice of potato, pickle, lettuce, tomato and onion rings. Another is the steak tidbit, which is a grilled skirt steak on garlic bread with melted mozzarella cheese.

Why do customers keep coming back?

We have been here for so long. We have good service with a casual atmosphere.

What is your favorite part about owning the business?

It is what I wanted to do my whole life. It is always great to interact with customers. Seeing the same faces and being here for so many years – I have seen children born, their christenings, confirmations and their weddings.