(The Reminder) – Dan Puza Sr. can remember, as a child, watching his father wash dishes at the North Elm Butcher Block.
When he was big enough to reach the sink while standing atop a milk crate, Puza began washing dishes, too. It’s just one of many memories the family has made over the last 75 years as a part of Westfield. On Sept. 2, staff, friends, family, and town officials gathered to celebrate the business reaching this anniversary with laughs, well wishes, and of course, good food.
“We’re blessed because for the support that has been given to us, you know, we wouldn’t be here without Westfield and surrounding communities,” said Puza to the gathered crowd in the parking lot. “They are very loyal to us.”
The business has been family-owned since 1947 and operated by four generations of Puzas, starting with its founder, Bill, and passed down to his son Lenny. Lenny ran it with his wife Pat and cousin Ron “Ziggy” Zygarowski for many years. Upon Lenny’s death in 1999 the business was passed on to Lenny’s son Dan and is currently operated by Dan’s son, Dan Jr., along with other members of the Puza family. The business moved to Westfield in 1949, and was known as Puza’s. When Lenny and Ron ran it, the store became known as the L&R Market, and was later renamed North Elm Butcher Block in 1975.
“There’s a lot of history here,” said Dan Sr. “I could go on and on to tell story after story about this place.”
Both Dan Sr. and his son said it was amazing to reach this milestone, and credited the loyal customers, some of whom bring their children as the years pass. Dan Jr. added that being able to change with the times helps too, pointing out the business’ food truck and catering service. The truck, emblazoned with the store’s signature logo, has been seen at the Tin Ridge Brewing Company, the Westfield Fair, Elm Pizza, and Two Rivers Burrito, among others.
“It’s great when I’m out of town and see people who recognize me,” said Dan. Jr.
Dan Sr. said his father had high expectations of him, that he made sure if he did something, it was done right. His son joked that his father is just the same way. COVID-19 was a challenge for the business, as they had to switch to takeout.
Still, the community showed their support and lines could be seen around the corner. One time, it was even into the street, and the police had to be called to direct traffic.
At the celebration there was a table filled with photos from throughout the years, chronicling different events, as well as tough times, such as when the construction of a nearby bridge impacted business for a few years, a time known as the “Nightmare on North Elm Street.” Dan Sr. said that forced them to think outside the box, going to home deliveries and having live music.
“Three entrances, we couldn’t even get in the store,” he said of those years.
Among the officials present was Mayor Michael McCabe, who credited the family’s perseverance over the years. He said that Westfield’s Christmas and Easter traditions would not have started without the Puzas.
“Because they’re always kind and generous with everything they’ve done,” he said.
State Sen. John Velis said that the cheeseburgers are the best in Massachusetts.
“There’s no exception,” he said.
Velis added that the kindness and compassion of the family is a hallmark of Westfield.
“What an honor to be here,” said Velis.
When asked about their most popular items, father and son agreed that it’s their hamburgers, but the brisket is another top seller. Dan Sr.’s wife Tara said how proud she was of them for all that they have done.
“As a mother, that’s all you can ask,” she said.
Dan Jr. thanked everyone for being there and said he idolized his father and grandfather growing up. He said the lessons imparted by the family made him who he is today.
“The legacy, what we have here and what we’ve built as a family,” he said. “It’s going to be another 75 years.”