Obits

Embers Steakhouse Founder Lou Rocanelli Has Died

The old Embers.
The old Embers. Photo: Patrick Siggins

Lou Rocanelli, who opened Embers in Fort Hamilton in 1985 as a lower-priced alternative to porterhouse stalwart Peter Luger, has died at the age of 81 after a brief illness, the Daily News reports. Along with his wife, Theresa, Lou was a constant presence at the restaurant (he even appears in one of the New York listing photos), which Hal Rubenstein once wrote was the “best steakhouse bargain in town.” The Rocanellis sold the restaurant to Alex Alejandro, owner of Manhattan old-timer El Parador Café, in 2011. [NYDN]

Embers Steakhouse Founder Lou Rocanelli Has Died