Franco Harris, the son of an Italian Mother whose hometown in Tuscany is very near Rico’s original hometown in Italy. The friendship between David (Rico’s son), Rico and Franco lasted for decades after Franco retired from football, and continued during many visits to Rico’s. Franco even has his own table in the restaurant.
In 2019 the NFL celebrated their 100th season and in doing so they voted, The Immaculate Reception as the most famous play in the history of the National Football League. It occurred in the AFC divisional playoff game between the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Oakland Raiders at Three Rivers Stadium in Pittsburgh, on December 23, 1972. Franco Harris caught the famous pass, thrown by Terry Bradshaw and intended for John “Frenchy” Fuque that bounced off a Raiders defender. A limited edition complete history of the Pittsburgh Steelers which David purchased “#32” of only 100 books published which is located inside Rico’s Restaurant and is a memorial for our friend, football legend Franco Harris.
From the book in our lobby to the NFL films “A Football Life Franco Harris” which was filmed inside the restaurant. What an honor that Franco chose to have Rico’s as the location to film his story.
The filming was done Wednesday May 4th, 2022 with Franco and his friend Oakland Raiders Phil Villapiano who was responsible to cover Franco on the famous play. Franco graciously had Rico sit down during dinner to share a meal along with personal stories.
