Murphy’s Subs closes the door

(Update)

The end of 2013 will bring the close of another Hamilton landmark. Albert Murphy is on his last day in business in the sub shop he opened 38 years ago.

We spent some time with “Murph” this afternoon, and the place was packed.  It was non-stop, lined out the door, for most of the afternoon at Murphy’s Subs on Dundurn South.

Albert Murphy opened his first shop in 1976 and has been going steady, ever since. By rough estimate, Murph has made more than half-a million subs over that span of time. and made nearly as many friends, and loyal customers. When we dropped by in the afternoon, nearly everyone I spoke to had a story about Murphy, and his legendary sense of humour. And many of them have not only grown up with Murphy but brought along their kids for the ride. And one of those families was standing by in the cold for one last chance to pay tribute.

Murph and his family said they will be open until they either run out of buns or customers. My guess is the buns will go first. But if there’s anything edible left at the end of the day, Albert Murphy will end his career with a typically kind gesture, donating everything perishable to a local shelter.