Taking pizza d'action: Brothers follow in dad's footsteps opening new fast food chain in Cork 

Twin brothers Scott and Mark Harrington are launching a new fast food brand in three Cork city locations as they follow in the footsteps of their restaurateur father who has worked in the industry for 40 years. Picture: Darragh Kane

Twin brothers Scott and Mark Harrington are launching a new fast food brand in three Cork city locations as they follow in the footsteps of their restaurateur father who has worked in the industry for 40 years.

Scott and Mark have launched the TomToms independent pizza and chipper brand with locations in Hollyhill, Bishopstown and Douglas. The new outlets open on Monday December 1.

Tom opened Burger Hut in Hollyhill in 1985, and later operated Apache Pizza franchises in Hollyhill, Bishopstown, and Douglas. Now, his sons Scott and Mark are creating their own independent brand. As part of the rebrand, the former Apache Pizza and Burger Hut locations will be relaunched under TomToms.

“We’ve worked really successfully with Apache over the years, and we want to thank them for their support,” said Mark Harrington. “But we’ve always been more than just pizza - we’re a full chipper too which will continue. This is our chance to create something that’s truly ours, rooted in family, flavour, and local personality.”

The Hollyhill branch, first opened as Burger Hut 40 years ago, later amalgamating with Apache Pizza in 2001. Both brothers have worked in the business for most of their lives, and full-time since the Douglas store opened.

“After 40 years in the business, it feels like the right time to retire and let the lads put their own stamp on things,” said Tom. “They’ve grown up around the business -I couldn’t be prouder to see them carry it forward in their own way. They are enthusiastic and ready for the challenge, with a fresh batch of ideas to bring to the table.” 

Staff will be retained as part of the rebrand. “We will have the same great team, a bigger menu and will remain proudly rooted in Cork.” added Mark. “We’re looking forward to innovating and driving on our own business model.” 

One of the new menu item will be the 'Pizza Pocket', a type of pizza wrap.  “This is the next chapter for our family,” said Mark.