BUFFALO, N.Y. — Mister Sizzle's on Connecticut Street is a staple for many Buffalonians looking for a classic burger, fries, and milkshake combination.
However, due to a lawsuit filed by part owner Connecticut Street Hospitality LLC, the future of the burger restaurant is on pause.
Court documents filed against Casey and Chris Casas, the couple who owns the other 50% of the restaurant, claim there was a breach in the operations agreement, and a misuse of funds.
The documents cite in part "breaches of fiduciary duties, breaches of contract, neglect, mismanagement, and improper conduct."
Claims that lawyers for the couple denies.
"At this point, there doesn't seem to be a way to reconcile with Mr. Pantalina, and the Casases to the point where we would ever want to re up the lease," said Tony Rupp, attorney for the Casases.
This evening, they are confirming the very real possibility that this Connecticut street location might have to close its doors.
"They're the ones, boots on the ground every day at the Connecticut Street location. Turned that into a thriving West Side business that's known to the community and very popular. And Mr. Pantalena has really done nothing, and so he's trying to strong arm them in the development of other locations," Rupp said.
A stop work order put in by a New York State Supreme Court judge currently prohibits the Casases from using Mister Sizzle's funds expect for day-to-day restaurant operations. It also limits the couple from withdrawing funds or taking actions on Mister Sizzle's behalf without written approval from Connecticut Street Hospitality Group.
The parties are due back in court on Dec. 9.