Amiel J. Mokhiber, the founder of Amiel’s Original Submarines, a beloved eatery in the Rochester area, passed away on November 1, 2023, at the age of 94. Despite initially dreaming of becoming a millionaire, Mr. Mokhiber found that the true reward of his success was the ability to provide for his family and make a positive impact in his community.
Born in Niagara Falls, New York on June 2, 1929, Mr. Mokhiber grew up in a family of immigrants. His parents, James A. Mokhiber and Ethel Hessney Mokhiber, established the Niagara Fruit Company, a wholesale fruit and vegetable business. As a teenager, Mr. Mokhiber gained valuable experience working in his cousin’s retail operation, where he learned the art of presentation and selling. He later joined his father in the wholesale side of the business, delivering produce to restaurants and hotels.
In 1976, Mr. Mokhiber decided to pursue a different path after facing financial difficulties. He moved to Rochester to work in the investment industry but found himself in debt and struggling. Determined to turn his fortunes around, he came up with the idea of opening a sandwich shop specializing in submarine sandwiches. He located a vacant building on West Main Street and negotiated a deal with the owner, offering to pay double the rent after the first six months. With little money but a lot of determination, Mr. Mokhiber opened the first Amiel’s Original Submarines location.
From the very first day, customers flocked to the sandwich shop. Mr. Mokhiber worked long hours, even sleeping on a cot at the restaurant. As the business flourished, he expanded, opening multiple locations throughout the Rochester area. By the mid-1970s, Amiel’s had become a local sensation, with two dozen shops and even a location in London’s Piccadilly Circus. Mr. Mokhiber’s personal touch, friendly demeanor, and commitment to customer satisfaction made him a beloved figure in the community.
Beyond his business success, Mr. Mokhiber was known for his generosity and caring nature. He often went above and beyond to help those in need, whether it was providing free sandwiches to neighborhood children or supporting charitable causes. His home in Pittsford was always open to family members and friends who needed a place to stay or a helping hand.
Though he faced ups and downs throughout his career, including setbacks caused by the bankruptcy of a major retail partner, Mr. Mokhiber never lost his passion for his business and his customers. In his final days, he reflected on his life and expressed his love for his children and the joy he found in making sandwiches for his customers.
Amiel Mokhiber leaves behind a legacy of hard work, resilience, and community spirit. His impact on the Rochester area and the lives of those he touched will be remembered for years to come.
Founder of Popular Rochester Sandwich Shop Chain Passes Away
