Pudgies Pizza

Pudgie's Pizza, Pasta & Subs opened its first operation in Elmira, NY in April 1957. The founder, Michael P. Cleary, Sr., also established Pudgie's Pizza Franchising Corp. in 1972 and M.P. Cleary, Inc. in 1989. Success did not come easily; hard work, ingenuity, and perseverance were the foundational elements that led to Pudgie's success. Pudgie's Pizza filled a large gap in the fast-food industry by providing quality food at a reasonable price. The combination of value, quality, and service resonated with the public. By the end of 1975, Pudgie's 12 pizza units had gross sales exceeding $5,000,000. Despite the founder's untimely passing in 1990, all Pudgie's locations eventually transitioned to non-franchised operations. Michael left behind his wife Rosa and sons Michael Jr., David, John, and Robert to carry on the family tradition. From 1957 to the present, the family has owned and operated the Elmira Southside location, as well as other locations in NY and PA. Notably, Southside Pudgie's is the single most successful location and the area's premier pizzeria. The Cleary family continues to be leaders in the pizza industry, upholding the legacy of their founder.