A Christmas Miracle for Baltimore’s Tiny Brick Oven
A Pizzeria on the Brink
In a heartwarming turn of events, a small pizzeria in Baltimore received an unexpected lifeline just days before Christmas, thanks to none other than Barstool Sports founder Dave Portnoy. The owner of Tiny Brick Oven, Will—a veteran and passionate entrepreneur—was facing the grim reality of closing his doors forever on December 25 due to financial struggles exacerbated by the city’s refusal to grant him a liquor license. This decision had left him at a significant disadvantage compared to his competitors who had already secured their licenses.
The Viral Encounter
Portnoy, known for his candid pizza reviews through his One Bite Pizza rankings series, decided to visit Tiny Brick Oven as part of his ongoing quest for great pizza. In a video that quickly gained traction online, he engaged with Will about the dire situation facing the pizzeria. “Without that liquor license,” Will explained earnestly, “I don’t see how we can keep going past Christmas.”
As fate would have it, Portnoy placed an order for some pizza while pondering aloud what might happen if it turned out delicious enough to attract more customers. “If this pizza is great and you start making money,” he asked with genuine curiosity, “can you stay open?” To which Will responded enthusiastically that he would indeed keep the lights on.
A Generous Offer
After taking a bite of what he described as “very good” New York-style pizza—despite it being reheated—Portnoy was clearly impressed. He remarked that there was no reason this establishment should be shutting down: “This place should not be going out of business.” With holiday cheer radiating from Will’s demeanor despite looming closure, Portnoy felt compelled to take action.
Turning serious for a moment, Portnoy directly asked Will how much money he needed to remain operational for an entire year. After some contemplation and hesitation in naming an amount due to uncertainty about future prospects without alcohol sales revenue, Will finally settled on $60K—a figure that could secure both operations and licensing.
With determination in his eyes and confidence in his voice, Portnoy extended his hand toward Will: “It’s done.” The shock registered across Will’s face was palpable; excitement bubbled over as cheers erupted from both men at this unexpected twist of fate.
A New Beginning
Before leaving Tiny Brick Oven with promises exchanged—including text updates regarding funds before Christmas—Portnoy gave the pizzeria an impressive rating of 7.9 out of 10. For many small businesses struggling during these challenging economic times marked by inflationary pressures and shifting consumer habits (with nearly 20% reporting difficulties staying afloat), such recognition can make all the difference.
As he exited into the brisk winter air after delivering heartfelt holiday wishes alongside generous support for continued operations at Tiny Brick Oven—the spirit of giving resonated deeply within everyone present during this encounter.
Conclusion
This story serves as not only inspiration but also highlights how community support can uplift local businesses when they need it most—even if it’s delivered through unconventional means like viral social media moments or celebrity endorsements! As we approach another festive season filled with hope and goodwill towards others amidst ongoing challenges faced by many entrepreneurs today—it reminds us all: sometimes miracles come wrapped up in slices!
