The Track Shack has been owned and operated by the same family since 1959, but that is about to change.
Joe Jannazzo, who has owned the iconic bar and grill at 233 E. Laurel St. since 1979, told SBJ that he is selling the business to Todd Rauthenberg. Rauthenberg most recently served as the general manager at Alexander’s Steakhouse, which closed in 2024.
“He was a customer here for years,” said Jannazzo. “After Alexander’s closed up, I had lost a cook and he said he’d fill in. A month or two later, he said, ‘You don’t want to sell this place, do you?’ and here we are.
Jannazzo took over The Track Shack in 1979 when his uncle, Mimi Vitale, retired. Vitale had opened the business 20 years prior but was operating it strictly as a bar by the time of his retirement. Jannazzo reinstituted a food menu and in 1990 he significantly expanded the dining room.
Jannazzo already had extensive cooking and restaurant experience before taking over operations of the The Track Shack. His father, Angelo Jannazzo, was co-owner of The Supper Club on South Sixth Street, a fine dining restaurant that specialized in Italian food, steaks and seafood. Jannazzo’s mother and grandmother were well-known for their Sicilian cooking skills.
The Track Shack has become known for its made-from-scratch dishes, including Italian favorites such as lasagna and the family’s sausage recipe. Fried chicken is another specialty, with house-made coating. The sauces and Italian dressing are made in-house and proved so popular with customers that Jannazzo decided to start bottling them. A line of Onofrio’s Classic Sauces – named for his maternal grandfather – and a Sweet Italian Dressing and Marinade can be purchased at area grocery stores and other retail outlets.
Jannazzo said that dedicated customers need not worry about any major changes in the works for The Track Shack, as Rauthenberg plans to keep the classic recipes on the menu. He said any changes would simply involve additions to the menu or expanded operating hours.
As for his retirement plans, Jannazzo said that while he is stepping away from the business he’s operated for more than 45 years, he won’t be leaving the area.
“I’ll stay in town; we’re not moving. I may do a little bit of traveling,” he said. “It’s been a good ride, and it wouldn’t have been possible without our loyal customers. I’m thankful for all of them.”
Jannazzo said he expects the sale to be finalized by late June or early July.
