When we embarked on the journey to open a restaurant as part of our marina redevelopment efforts, we didn’t know what to expect. We had several ideas of what the restaurant could or should be, but nothing absolute. We wanted a dockside bar with food, but much more. We wanted to achieve a casual, “flip-flop fancy” establishment that found the balance of comfort with elevated service and food. But what would we serve?
As fate would have it, we were fortunate enough to connect with Frank and Tommy Macri in 2021. Frank and Tommy founded and operated Canandaigua’s famous Macri’s Deli and Café at the old Wegman’s Plaza before moving to our city pier location. One customer favorite that didn’t make the move was their pizza. There was simply no room for the oven at the new location. We didn’t think it was a big deal as Macri’s was all about the sandwiches. If we said we were wrong, that would be an understatement!
When the idea for a new concept came up, we knew it had to center on pizza. Learning about Frank and Tommy’s authentic pizza al taglio—its recipe, training, imported Italian ovens, and special flour—showed us we were on the right path. Time in Italy enjoying true Roman pizza sealed the choice. Our focus became bringing back pizza al taglio, building on Macri’s reputation, and pairing it with local and Italian wines by Canandaigua Lake.
Why Visit COHO?
COHO Pizza & Wine Bar is more than food. It’s about gathering by the lake, enjoying great pizza and wine, and sharing moments with family and friends. Our mission is to bring back the pizza Macri’s was famous for while offering a welcoming lakeside setting for everyone
