After 81 years and three generations, Ricci’s Italian Sausage, a staple in McKees Rocks, has a new owner.
Ernie Ricci, the third-generation “Sausage Prince” of McKees Rocks moved to Florida last week to be closer with his family.
His one son is an attorney in Naples, Florida and his other son is an orthopedic surgeon in Columbus, Georgia.
While Ricci says leaving Pittsburgh is hard, he wanted to be closer to his sons and five grandchildren.
The good news for customers is nothing will change at Ricci’s.
Ernie tells KDKA Radio the new owner is 30-years-old and that all eight of his employees are staying on “and are very happy>’
“The business remains as Ricci’s Italian Sausage with the same recipe and USDA federal inspection. Nothing changes!” Ricci says.
Ricci says he isn’t fully walking away. He will continue to be a consultant for the new owner, voicing commercials and calling in for the annual Seven Fishes show with Rob Pratte.
In addition to the Seven Fishes broadcast, Ricci was a big part of the annual Spaghetti Breakfast with John Cinga.
“I was blessed to work with Cigna, Rob Pratte, Larry Richert, Chris Fennimore and Rick Sebak - now, that is Pittsburgh! Thank you, Pittsburgh, for supporting my business for the past 81 years,” said Ricci.
