The Cork family’s food legacy began with a little chipper 40 years ago
09:39, 27 Nov 2025Updated 10:03, 27 Nov 2025
Chipper Legacy passes from Father to Sons – Scott and Mark Harrington with their father Tom Harrington(Image: D Kane)
A well-known food business family is launching a new chapter, as brothers Scott and Mark Harrington open new takeaways across Cork. The Harrington’s legacy food business began four decades ago in Hollyhill.
The twins’ father, Tom Harrington, first opened the Burger Hut chipper in 1985, and over the decades built a portfolio of takeaways. His businesses included Apache Pizza franchises in Hollyhill, Bishopstown, and Douglas. Now, Tom’s sons are ready for their new foodie venture.
Scott and Mark have launched TOMTOMS, a new independent pizza brand named in tribute to their father. The family’s former Burger Hut and Apache Pizza franchises are now rebranded as new TOMTOMS chippers, in what Mark Harrington said is the “next chapter for our family.”
“We’re excited to continue serving our community and to welcome everyone to TOMTOMS,” he said. The new family-owned Cork pizza shop and chippers will be open from Monday, December 1. Customers can look forward to an expanded menu including pizzas, burgers, baguettes, kebabs, and Pizza Pockets – a new signature item that the brothers hope will be a hit with customers.
They’ve rebranded to TOMTOMS in Hollyhill, Douglas and Bishopstown(Image: Darragh Kane)
“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 veteran takeaway owner Tom, “They’ve grown up around the business, and 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. ”
Mark added: “We’ve worked really successfully with Apache over the years, and we want to thank them for their support. 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 Burger Hut opened 40 years ago. In 2001, it amalgamated with Apache Pizza. Both brothers have worked in the business for most of their lives, and many of their team members have been with the family for over 20 years. All staff will be retained as part of the rebrand.
“TOMTOMS will bring together the best of our pizza and chipper heritage. 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.”
Three TOMTOMS locations are opening in Hollyhill, Bishopstown, and Douglas on Monday. And the family is offering a special offer for the month of December. Customers can get a large 14-inch pizza for just €12.