The Hershey community is grieving the loss of Philip Guarno, the owner of Fenicci’s of Hershey, who passed away on March 24, 2025, at the age of 62. A dedicated businessman, philanthropist, and advocate for downtown Hershey, Guarno leaves behind a lasting legacy of service, passion, and hospitality.
Guarno was widely respected not only as a restaurant owner but also as a leader in the local tourism and business community. His commitment to the area was evident through his years of advocacy and his time serving on the board of Visit Hershey & Harrisburg, where he dedicated nine years to enhancing the region’s tourism industry.
“Phil was a man who fought for his family, business, and community. It is a horrible day for the restaurant family. Rest in peace, friend,” wrote 1796 at The Warwick Hotel in a tribute on social media.
Visit Hershey & Harrisburg echoed the community’s sorrow, sharing, “Phil’s love and enthusiasm for the Hershey community and for every guest who visited his restaurant was unmatched. Our hearts are with his loving family, friends, and coworkers at this difficult time.”
A native of Trenton, New Jersey, Guarno arrived in the Harrisburg area as a general manager with Marriott, where he worked for two decades. His career in hospitality took a new direction in 2006 when he purchased Fenicci’s of Hershey, a beloved local institution known for its Old World Italian cuisine, including its signature upside-down pizza, homemade meatballs, and lasagna.
Despite his ownership, Guarno never considered himself the owner but rather the “proud custodian of a Hershey tradition.” In a promotional video for Visit Hershey several years ago, he described Fenicci’s as a welcoming, no-frills Italian eatery with “really good red sauce.”
His passion for food extended beyond Fenicci’s. He later opened Phillip Arthur’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream, named in honor of his late father, Phillip Arthur Guarno, who had operated ice cream shops in Doylestown, Pennsylvania, and Trenton, New Jersey. Though he closed the shop last year, he ensured its continuation by handing over the keys to the owners of Stuff’D Steaks & Hoagies.
Guarno was known for his candid nature and his commitment to the local hospitality industry. Even in difficult times, he remained a positive and influential voice. “He was always a positive voice for the hospitality industry, even when it wasn’t what people liked,” said Eric Nyman, owner of the Penn Hotel in Derry Township.
His passing leaves a void in Hershey’s restaurant and business community, but his influence will continue to be felt for years to come. His dedication to his family, his business, and the Hershey community will be remembered and cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him.
Details regarding memorial services will be announced by his family. The community will undoubtedly come together to celebrate the life of a man who gave so much to the town he loved.