Thursday, August 24, 2023

Blimpies Sub Sandwiches

 



BLIMPIES

I"I MISS YOU GUYS"

I MISS The SUBS



    "I Miss BLIMPIE'S" Yes I do. I first discovered Blimpie's when I was a teenager growing up in 1970s New Jersey, Blimpie's made tasty Sub Sandwiches that were quite affordable. They had a wide selection of Sandwiches to choose from, but my favorite and just about only way to go was with a Blimpie Best or similar Italian-Style Combo Sandwich that was made with Ham, Salami, and Provolone Cheese, and topped with shredded Lettuce, Onions, and sliced Tomatoes, dressed with Oil & Vinegar and seasoned with Salt, Pepper, and dried Oregano. The Sandwiches always pleased. They were very consitent, the Sandwiches always tasted the same, which is a good thing, because you always knew what you were getting. You oredered the sandwich you liked, and alwasys tasted the same., and that's not easy to do. Well they didn't have to cook anything, so it was pretty simple. The Bread, Meat Products, and Cheese were always the exact same on any Sandwich you ordered. The only way they could possibly screw up was with the seasonings of Salt, Pepper, Oil & Vinegar, and Oregano. But the empoyees were well versed and they usually did a good job. I never any complaints. I always loved my sandwiches, and was never disappointed. Not once. I nver really thought about it before, but now as I'm writing this little piece I do realized just how Good Blimpie's and their Tasty Sandwiches were. They were Pretty Amazing, come to think of it. I did about. I went, oredered my Sandwich, ate it, enjoyed it, and left, until the next time I had a craving for one, and I did at least once a month or more for years, until the Blimpie that I used to go on 4th Avenue and 13th Street closed, and I couldn't get a Blimpie Sandwich anymore. A sad day it was. I miss them, and I can't stand SUBWAY, I think they SUCK. Their sandwiches are of low quality, and I;d rather have a Blimpie, but I can't. Such is Life. It can be cruel at times. And the fact I can't eat a Blimpie Sandwich anymore, I'd say is a bit sad, but what can I do? Reminisce, that's about all I can do.

Basta !!!


DBZ




As if it were an old, reclusive celebrity, a coworker asked, "Does Blimpie's still exist?" Yes, yes, Blimpie is still alive and, presumably, well. At the very least, there are still plenty in NYC. While we associate the sandwich franchise with 1990s strip malls, did you know one of the first shops opened here in the 1960s? Here it is, your short and probably totally unnecessary history of Blimpie.


First of all, Blimpie is called that because one of the founders, Tony Conza, didn't like the sounds of "subs." Conza, along Peter DeCarlo and Angelo Bandassare, opened their first shop in Hoboken in 1964, and apparently people in the area weren't familiar with the term "hoagie," so that was out, too. As the legend goes, Conza found "blimpie" while flipping through a dictionary, and felt it was appropriate. 






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"BLIMPIE"  - A BRIEF HISTORY


Blimpie began its journey on the Jersey side of the Hudson River when 3 high school pals teamed up after graduation to develop it with $2,500 in funding, They opened the first Blimpie at the corner of Seventh and Washington Streets in Hoboken, N.J., according to NJ.com.

The year was 1964, and Blimpie didn't want to sound like just another submarine sandwich company — a factor that factored into its name. Scouring a dictionary, Blimpie's young brain trust was quickly drawn to the word '"blimp" and the accompanying picture that they felt resembled the bread of a submarine sandwich (per QSR).

The ship-to-sub comparison was apt enough for founders Tony Conza, Peter DeCarlo, and Angelo Baldassare, who approved a name that would see the company long past its first location. That being said, Blimpie's first sandwich shop no longer exists. 

Blimpie's ideological foundation was first laid out during a party conversation between founders Tony Conza, Peter DeCarlo, and Angelo Baldassare in Jersey City, N.J. According to the New York Times, the atmosphere and accompanying drinks catalyzed a brainstorm of business ideas. Unsure of what kind of venture to start, the future Blimpie founders tossed around concepts until they eventually settled on the idea of a sandwich shop.

Blimpie's belief that this concept could work was backed by the success of Mike's Submarines in Point Pleasant, N.J., a place that was typically bursting with patronage. Intrigued by its popularity, Blimpie's founders performed some culinary espionage by eating some of Mike's Subs. Impressed by what they ate, they opened their own sandwich shop in a similar vein. Mimicking their mentor proved a sage choice, as both sandwich chains still exist today. There is one exception, though — Mike's Submarines is now known as Jersey Mike's.

Long before "move fast and break things" became a popular startup motto, Blimpie was stirring up dust and drywall in the 1960s. Aggressively gunning for expansion, the founders of Blimpie exploded their base readily. By 1967, they had successfully expanded into Manhattan, with 10 Blimpies already churning out hoagie-style Subs.

Four of these franchises were owned by founders Tony Conza and Peter DeCarlo, and although it may not sound like much in our age of easy venture capital, running 4 Blimpies back then proved more than Conza and DeCarlo could handle.

Unable to keep lightning in the bottle without a formal business education, Conza and DeCarlo were flying by the seat of their pants. Per the New York Times, Conza and DeCarlo "admitted they weren't skilled businessmen." As it turned out, they were "incautious about the costs of goods and employee salaries."

Conza and DeCarlo would bend but would not fold, selling all 4 Blimpies they personally owned. They shifted their focus on building back Blimpie's bottom line through franchising.


In 1976 BLIMPIE SPLIT Into TWO COMPANIES


It's tough to keep even the best teams together, and the Blimpie crew was no exception. Citing a difference in opinion, as DeCarlo wanted to keep Blimpie East Coast and Conza wanted to expand southward, the original founders decided to reform Blimpie into 2 distinct companies under the same trademark. 

It was decided DeCarlo would run Blimpie Metropolitan and retain control of the majority of Blimpie's New York, New Jersey, and East Coast locations. Conza would head the original company, but renamed it International Blimpie Corporation while crafting a new imprint. Conza relished the opportunity and quickly franchised Blimpies "wherever there was interest," according to the New York Times. Conza would eventually admit the error of his ways, and over the years, many of those locations damaged the brand before closing down. They allegedly drove customers up the wall with filthy bathrooms and discordant employees.


Blimpie went public in 1983


In the blur of Blimpie's forced growth throughout the 70s and 80s, they also sought public investment. Blimpie's rise was rapid, but stores were closing rapidly as well (via Reference for Business). It's clear the underwriter held reservations, as Blimpie's initial public offering debuted at 90 cents per share — an unpromising number, even when adjusted for inflation. It served as a flashing indicator that the 80s would bring turbulent times for this blimp-inspired brand.

Blimpie's aggressive expansion also resulted in marks against sanitation. Founder Tony Conza's loose approach to franchising led to undisciplined franchisees and resulted in a massive identity crisis for the Blimpie brand. According to the New York Times, Blimpie had such "renegade owners" who flouted their business formula that some bad actors even sold Chinese food and pizza. However, there was a silver lining — these maverick moves were also a cry for help, begging Blimpie to expand its menu. It became an idea it pursued in the following decade.

If you've ever wondered why Subway is so enormous, a big part of that may be Blimpie's decision to pump the brakes on its best product in the 1980s: the sub sandwich.

As Subway made moves in the submarine sandwich sector, Blimpie pivoted toward a sit-down restaurant idea that became the Border Cafe (via the New York Times). It was a short-lived endeavor that hemorrhaged funds shortly after striking ground in Manhattan. Although Border Cafe's initial numbers were promising, not even former New York Yankee great Dave Winfield could save them as a partial owner (via Reference for Business). However, that was the small problem. The big problem? Blimpie gave Subway an inch and it took a mile. It padded a sandwich-selling lead that only grew wider and would never again be threatened by Blimpie.

If you've ever wondered why Subway is so enormous, a big part of that may be Blimpie's decision to pump the brakes on its best product in the 1980s: the sub sandwich.

As Subway made moves in the submarine sandwich sector, Blimpie pivoted toward a sit-down restaurant idea that became the Border Cafe (via the New York Times). It was a short-lived endeavor that hemorrhaged funds shortly after striking ground in Manhattan. Although Border Cafe's initial numbers were promising, not even former New York Yankee great Dave Winfield could save them as a partial owner (via Reference for Business). However, that was the small problem. The big problem? Blimpie gave Subway an inch and it took a mile. It padded a sandwich-selling lead that only grew wider and would never again be threatened by Blimpie.



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Sunday, August 20, 2023

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Monday, August 14, 2023

Positano Amalfi Coast Hotels Hotel Guy Capri Italy Rome

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Le SIRENUSE

OUR FAVORITE LUXURY HOTEL

POSITANO





Le SIRENUSE

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HOTEL Le SIRENUSE  ... Via Cristofo 30, POSITANO, Italy




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HOTEL iL San PEITRO




IL San PIETRO

POSITANO

"CHECK OUT The VIEW"





IL San PEITRO




IL San PIETRO di POSITANO

Located close to Church of Santa Maria Assunta, Il San Pietro di Positano provides a free breakfast buffet, a marina, and a beach bar. With a private beach, beachfront dining, and sun loungers, this hotel is the perfect place to soak up some sun. Indulge in a sports massage, a manicure/pedicure, and a body treatment at the onsite spa. Enjoy Mediterranean cuisine and ocean views at the two onsite restaurants. Pilates classes and yoga classes are offered at the gym; other things to do include kayaking and boat tours. Free in-room WiFi is available to all guests, along with a poolside bar and a rooftop terrace.


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Hotel Villa Franca


5-star luxury hotel in the historical district

At Hotel Villa Franca, you can look forward to free continental breakfast, a poolside bar, and a terrace. For some rest and relaxation, visit the Turkish bath/hammam, and indulge in a facial, a manicure/pedicure, or a massage. The onsite Mediterranean cuisine fine-dining restaurant, Li Galli Gourmet, features ocean views and al fresco dining. In addition to an art gallery on site and designer stores on site, guests can connect to free in-room WiFi.




 

ONE of POSITANO'S MOST BEAUTIFUL HOTELS



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POSITANO

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One of The GORGEOUS PUBLIC ROOMS

VILLE TREVILLE is One of POSITANO'S

MOST BEAUTIFULLY APPOINTED HOTELS





Villa Treville


Hotel located in Arienzo
Take advantage of a free breakfast buffet, a rooftop terrace, and a garden at Villa Treville. For some rest and relaxation, visit the Turkish bath/hammam, and indulge in a massage, a manicure/pedicure, or a facial. 

Free in-room WiFi, with speed of 250+ Mbps (good for 3–5 people or up to 10 devices), is available to all guests, along with dry cleaning/laundry services and a fireplace in the lobby.








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CASA ALBERTINA  ... Positano

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Look at This View ??? !!!!

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One of Our ALL-TIME FAVORITES CASA  ALBERTINA

POSITANO

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CasaALBEr

Casa Albertina

LUXYURY For LESS

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Beautifully Appointed Rooms 

Casa Albertina is a wonderful 1st Class little family run Hotel that is perfectly situated so you get a nice view of the town from just a little way up, yet a short easy teen minute walk to the Beach and Center of Positano. 

I first discovered Casa Albertina  way back in 1986 and had 3 glorious days staying there. The son Lorenzo gave me a special rate, seeing I was a young man (22) and probably didn't have much cash. This hotel is beautifully appointed and the entire staff provides the most friendly service. Casa Albertina is an Absolute Gem.

Note : The first time I stayed at CASA ALBERTINA was the Summer of 1986. The owners sone Lorenzo gave me a special rate of $79 a night, and I had an absolutely wonderful time. The next year when I came back, the price had gone up to $119 a night. When I checked the prices in May of 2018, the rate was $279 a night, and actually a reasonable rate for the quality of this hotel, which is not super deluxe, but does make it in to the luxury category of hotels.

CASA ALBERTINA ... Via Tavolozza 3  ... POSITANO , ITALY  ... Reserve a Room .

 

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Me at Casa Albertina

Breakfast with Nicoletta

Summer 1986


BUCA di BACCO .... Positano,


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RISTORANTE BUCA di BACCO

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GREAT VIEWS FroM BUCCA di BACO

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HOTEL BUCA di BACC  ... Via Rama Teglia 4 ... Positano, Italy ...  tel. 39 081 1892 2289 Click Here to Book a Room at Buca di Bacco






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Le SIRENUSE

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Le SIRENUSE HOTEL ... Via C. Colombo 30 , Positano, Italy .. tel. 39 0862 060556  Click Here to Book a Room at Le SIRENUSE HOTEL 








IL San PIETRO

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HOTEL ART PASTEA

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VILLA YIARA

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Villa Yiara

Positano, Italy


Gorgeous views from your own private terrace at Villa Yiara Residence, Positano. Featuring a sea-view terrace in each room, Residence Villa Yiara is an adult-only property housed in an 18th-century building. Overlooking the bay of Positano. It offers air-conditioned accommodations 2,650 feet from the beach.

With white and yellow décor, all rooms at the Villa Yiara residence have free WiFi. Each includes a private bathroom with a shower. Some also feature a spa bath.

In this lively area of Positano, guests can find restaurants and cafés within walking distance. A 20-minute drive away, the port of Sorrento offers direct links to Ischia and Capri islands.


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A typical Room

Villa Yiara

Villa Yiara Residence .. Pasitea 294, Positano ...  Info and Bookings


HOTEL DIMORA FORNILLO

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View from the Terrazzo at Hotel Dimora Fornillo

POSITANO


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A Room with a VIEW

Hotel Dimora Fornillo


HOTEL DIMORA FORNILLO ... Via Fornillo 27 , POSITANO

About 200 Steps up to the Hotel from the Beach and Center of town. AC Free Wifi ... Free BREAKFAST    Reserve a Room


VILLA MARIA ANTONIETTA

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View From VILLA MARIA ANTONIETTA

If You're on a Budget, Villa Maria Antonietta is on of The Best Options in Town ...

Posiitano has to be one of the hardest place in the World to find a hotel room, and in the Budget Category, almost but not Impossible. Villa Maria Antonietta is one of your best options if you want to pay less than $150 US Dollars a night. It's almost impossible finding a room here in the high season (April to Mid October).  You have a much better chance getting a room here in the off-season when you can get a room for about $96 a night (US Dollars).

I first stayed here in the Summer of 1985, and was recommended this place by the late Poet RENE RICARD. At the time I paid $40 a night, so considering the way things have skyrocketed here in Positano, that you can get a room for about double the price in 2018, that's pretty reasonable.

The accommodations are basic, but most important, they are clean, the location is Fantastic, you are in Positano and it's relatively Cheap.

If you want to stay in in Summer, Book Far in Advance !!!

Just 1,900 Feet from the Main Beach and Marina to catch Boats (Ferries) coming and going to Positano. 

VILLA MARIA ANTONIETTA ... Via C. Colombo 41 , POSITANO , ITALY 



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HOTEL PALAZZO MURAT

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See The Beautiful Rooms available at The Palazzo Murat

POSITANO

The Palazzo Murat is one of our favorite hotels in town. This 18th century, L-shaped palazzo was once home to Joachim Murat, king of Naples and brother-in-law to Napoleon, and there is an air of grandeur (but not pomposity) about the place, especially in the vaulted public rooms with their antiques and fine paintings. An elegant wrought-iron gateway leads into the enticing arched courtyard, dripping with bougainvillea and shaded by big white umbrellas. Via Dei MULINI  23 .. Positano, Italy ...  Click Here for more Info on The Hotel Murat


HOTEL CONCA D' ORO

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Hotel Conca D' Oro

Positano

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HOTEL CONCA D' ORO

POSITANO

Afforadable with Average Room Rate of $145 a Night US Dollars

150 Steps Up, about a 15 Minute Walk to The Main Beach

HOTEL CONCA D' ORO  .... Via Boscariello 16 ,   POSITANO , ITALY   Info & Reservations



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TERRAZZO of The HOTEL POSA POSA

And The BEST DEAL in TOWN !


When it comes to hotels in Positano and Prices, the Hotel Posa Posa is without question, thee # 1 “BEST Deal in TOWN,” Bar None. For average room rates of about $135 a night, combined with the elegance and appoints of this lovely little hotel, you are not going to find a better deal than this, anywhere in Positano. It’s quite astonishing that in comparison to the high prices of hotel rooms in Positano, that what you get at Posa Posa doesn’t cost a whole lot more.

Hotel Posa Posa has just about everything you want in a hotel, it’s elegant, has great service, lovely rooms, a terrace with a gorgeous view of Positano, and a pool to boot. The only thing the place is missing is its closeness to the beach and center of town, which for some will not matter at all, while others it might be a factor. For those who love to walk, it’s a nice walk down from Posa Possa to the beaches and center of town, and many guests do this, but take one of the little town buses when going back to the hotel.


HotelPOSABREAKFAST

Breakfast and Rlexation on The Terrazzo is The Way to Go

 Hotel Posa Posa has a very nice restaurant that serves wonderful regional Italian Food, and this is the place where you will start your day with a nice complementary Breakfast, as you overlook the beautiful town of Positano on the hotel’s terrace. It’s quite the lovely sight and a perfect way to start your day.


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POSITANO

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TIPS on GETTING a ROOM in POSITANO and The AMALFI COAST

Number 1, is if you have decided and know you are going to Positano, Book  room as "SOON" as you possibly can. Hotel Rooms are in HIGH DEMAND in POSITANO and are Booked Months in Advance, so if you don't want to get shut out of the most desirable hotels, book your hotel as far in advance as you can.

Positano has to be without question one of the hardest places in the World for the Budget minded to get a hotel room. There are not many options, as most hotels, the prices are astronomical priced. Seriously! This being said, it's not impossible and there are some options available.

We have Compiled a List of Several Affordable (Cheapest Hotel Rooms in POSITANO) Options for the Budget Minded. It wasn't easy, but we did it.

It goes without saying that's it's markedly more difficult to find a reasonably priced room here during the high season which runs from mid April to mid September, with mid May to the first week of September being super busy.

This all being said, if it's possible for you to go in October or April, these two months might be your best possible option. If you have plenty of cash and can afford to pay $300 or more a night for a hotel room, then you won't have as much as a problem.

The other alternative to see Positano if you want to go during the High Season, is to stay in another town like, Praiano right next door to Positano, or Minori, Sorrento or other town near by, and take a bus or Boat to visit POSITANO have a nice lunch and do some sightseeing.


Good Luck

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LOOKING FOR A ROMANTIC GETAWAY ?

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SANTA ROSA MONASTERO HOTEL

CONCA DEI MARINI

A Top Pick of HONEYMOON COUPLES


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Santa Rosa Monastero Hotel


This luxurious adult-only hotel is perched on a cliff with panoramic views of the Gulf of Salerno. A former monastery, it maintains the original style, and offers a garden with swimming pool and a free spa. A free shuttle to Amalfi is available.

Monastero Santa Rosa Hotel & Spa offers elegant, refined rooms with views of the sea. All accommodations comes with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and a flat-screen TV.

The spa of Monastero Santa Rosa is complete with tepidarium, Turkish bath and whirlpool bath, all with free entry. Massages and beauty treatments, using Santa Maria Novella products, are also available.

Breakfast includes traditional Neapolitan pastries such as Sfogliatelle Santa Rosa, and also savory food. The gourmet restaurant serves local and national cuisine.

SANTA ROSA is One of The AMALFI COAST'S Most Exclusive HOTELS - Check Availability

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