For generations of Plainview residents—and citizens of the surrounding areas—Zorn’s is a special place. It occupies a taste of the past while existing very much in the present. And now, for the venerable fried chicken establishment, the future looks bright.
Merrill S. Zorn, president/CEO of Zorn’s of Bethpage, announced recently that the iconic original location of her family’s store, located at 4321 Hempstead Tpke., will undergo a major transformation in the coming months, as a brand new store and facility will be constructed on the western side of the current property.
“This is an exciting time for us and the entire Zorn’s of Bethpage Family,” said Zorn. “This is the beginning of the next chapter in our family’s historic legacy on Long Island. What is most important to me is that we are keeping the entire Zorn’s of Bethpage Family together. All of our employees will transition with us to the new operation. This will ensure the consistency and quality our customers have come to know and love. I am continuing my grandfather’s commitment to the people who we work with every day.”
The store will remain in operation during the construction of the new building, meaning Zorn’s will keep slinging chicken, ribs and the rest of its high-quality offerings to customers who have expected nothing but the best from the restaurant for the past eight decades.
“Everything Long Islanders have come to know and love about Zorn’s of Bethpage—our quality, freshness, traditional recipes and friendly staff—will all remain exactly the same,” said Zorn, adding that more than 65 jobs will be saved thanks to the store’s transformation. “Those who drive by or stop in will see construction equipment and people working on the site, building our future while our store remains open for business. Many of our customers and friends have questions and want to know what’s happening. We truly appreciate this interest and we are committed to keeping everyone updated.”
In the coming weeks and months, Zorn’s of Bethpage will also be making many important announcements about the new store and facility.
“At Zorn’s of Bethpage, we know that many Long Islanders have made our food part of their family traditions, from special event celebrations to holiday parties and more. We would like you to share your memories of Zorn’s of Bethpage with us,” added Zorn.
As part of the transformation, the Zorn Family and staff are asking customers to share their memories of family traditions of which Zorn’s of Bethpage has played a part of over the past 80 years. Customers and friends are asked to participate in the Zorn’s of Bethpage History Project by submitting photos, videos and comments via email to memories@zornsofbethpage.com or by posting on social media and using the hashtag #Zornsofbethpagehistory. Memories may also be submitted via mail to: History Project c/o Zorn’s of Bethpage, 4321 Hempstead Tpke., Bethpage, NY 11714.
“My dad took me there, I took my son there and if he had kids, he’d take them there, too,” said Thomas Phillip, a former Plainview resident who now resides in Florida. “Before the fast food ‘Colonel’ and before trendy restaurants, Zorn’s was the place for fried chicken. It makes me so happy to hear they are still in business and that they are even expanding.”
To find more information and to access all social media sites, visit www.zornsofbethpage.com. Customers can also receive updates on the construction as well as special offers, events and activities by going to the website and signing up for the Zorn’s of Bethpage newsletter.
