For 60 years, the Hungry A in Springfield has been consistently offering good cooking and good conversation, thanks to Bruce Coletta and his family, writes Matteo Iadonisi for 6abc.

The breakfast and lunch business on Sproul Road was started by Coletta’s father in March 1964.

“I was 13 years old when my dad opened,” said Coletta. “I’m 73 now.”

“I remember when my dad woke me up one morning, and he said, ‘Come on, we have something to do today.’”

His father converted a mom-and-pop hardware store into a breakfast and lunch place.

Coletta worked at The Hungry A through high school and college, then took over in 1980. He’s been running it ever since, helped by his wife, Micky.

Even though his dad died young, Coletta has worked to keep his father’s vision alive.

“My dad taught me a lot about people and giving,” Coletta said.

One unique feature of the business is the use of big community tables to encourage people to meet.

“I come every morning and meet our fellow retirees,” said longtime customer Tom Hewes. “We have a great breakfast, and we may come back for lunch if we have time.”

Read more about Hungry A being a Springfield business icon for the past 60 years at 6abc.