Legendary Pittsburgh Pizzeria Reopens

PITTSBURGH, PA — Vento's Pizza, an East Liberty institution for nearly seven decades before its closure in March, has reopened under new ownership.

The new owners are Mederbek Toktosunov and his sister Aigul Kubatbekova, Triblive reported. They previously owned Pizza Fiesta, which has locations in Downtown and Bloomfield-Garfield.

Founded in 1961 and located in several East Liberty locations throughout the years, Vento's perhaps is best known as having founded Franco's Italian Army in 1972. Created by Al Vento and his business partner, Tony Stagno, the group was formed in 1972 to offer support to the late Steelers running back Franco Harris, a rookie who was half-Italian.

More than 50 years later, Vento's until its closure served the Italian Army hoagie. The sandwich included chopped beef, fried onions, marinara sauce, provolone cheese, lettuce and tomato.

Vento's is located in the Home Depot plaza on North Highland Avenue.