Kapp's Pizza could reopen soon Kapp's Pizza could reopen soon (September 03, 2004)

Owner Larry Kapp recovering from surgery

By Jon Wiener

The doors to one of Castro Street's biggest landmarks have been shut mysteriously for months. "Temporarily closed for repairs and maintenance," a sign reads.

Inside, Kapp's Pizza looks almost ready to open for business: the floors swept clean, the tables neatly set with napkin holders and condiments. In fact, the popular lunch spot could be bustling again soon.

The restaurant's closure had confounded patrons and neighboring business owners, who had heard only rumors about what was happening at the historic building, on the corner of Castro and Villa Streets.

But after inquiries by the Voice, co-owner Joe Kapp said the restaurant closed because of the medical condition of his brother, co-owner and operator Larry Kapp.

Larry underwent a 10-hour operation to remove a brain tumor Monday, according to Joe, and remained in intensive care on Tuesday.

"I can't keep the smile off my face. He came through it with flying colors," said Joe.

The news that Larry was recovering and was hoping to reopen soon elicited good wishes for him and sighs of relief for his restaurant.

"That would be wonderful if they can [reopen] soon," said City Manager and loyal patron Kevin Duggan. "It's truly turned into quite an institution in the community. A lot of people enjoy the mix of food, and it's certainly a beautiful building."

Larry Kapp, described by his brother and others as a very private person, is a board member of the Central Business Association and has been active in the community. He suffered from impaired vision and dizziness before getting diagnosed with a brain tumor earlier this year.

"Our team has had a longer vacation than we had planned," Joe Kapp said of the closure. But he's optimistic about reopening.

"We know 20 years of serving customers are not going to be forgotten," he said. "It's been a 20-year pizza party."

E-mail Jon Wiener at jwiener@mv-voice.com.

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