Eight years ago, the Rieger family from New York City moved to the Scenic City. They say they don't miss the weather, but in the beginning, they did miss the food. So when
Hixson's NYPD opened, specializing in New York-style pizza, pasta, Phillies and more, the Rieger family rejoiced.
"The first time I walked in and saw a Sicilian pizza I was sold," said father Tim, who now says that NYPD is even better than pizza he remembers from back home.
I met the family of five, which includes parents Tim and Marie and daughters Hailey, Ashlynn and Tristynn, during NYPD's fourth anniversary, which also happened to be middle daughter Ashlynn's ninth birthday. The happy family was stretched out on one of the pizzeria's outdoor picnic tables, sharing slices.
"We've been coming since day one," said eldest daughter Hailey. "We're here at least
twice a week, sometimes more."
Over the years, the Riegers have become close with fellow New Yorkers, NYPD owner Erik Cilen and manager Gary Matthews.
"You mean Uncle Erik and Uncle Gary?" laughed mother Marie.
And so it is no surprise the Riegers choose to spend special occasions at the Hixson
eatery - from anniversaries to birthdays to first Communions - which, I learned,
Ashlynn would soon be celebrating in NYPD's private banquet hall.
For years, NYPD was a "hole in the wall" pizza shop with just eight tables. Now, it has tripled in square footage and clientele. After all, it pays to become part of the NYPD
family. Literally.
"We want to say congratulations to Jim Henegar," said Erik.
This year, Jim won NYPD's enormous anniversary giveaway: one free 24-inch pie every month for a year.
As the Riegers continued to dine, a steady stream of customers trickled through the pizzeria's front doors. Erik smiled wide.
"Better start making some pies," he said, grinning.