Passing of Don McCamphill - pizza pioneer

At the opening of the 1980s, Ballymena’s cuisine culture was dominated by the traditional chip shop and the growing number of Chinese takeaways and restaurants.

But a venue on William Street was to witness the dawn of the age of pizza in Ballymena.

It was in the parlour of a tiny terraced house on William Street, once famous for its multiple pubs, that Don McCamphill, who passed away last week, fired up his first pizza oven and dramatically changed the way that many locals spent their weekends!

In the years to come the ‘Pizza Parlour’ would make moves to Greenvale Street, Springwell Street and latterly to Broughshane Street.

It would become a much loved meeting place for generations with many a future marriage founded on a spicy American Hot or a passionate pepperoni!

Mr. McCamphill learned his pizza cooking trade at Flanagan’s in Dublin at the oldest pizza place in the Republic of Ireland.

Returning to Ballymena, he opened up the original parlour in William Street where it remained for a few months until the surging market demand meant that the crowded little room was simply not able to accommodate the growing numbers, prompting the move to Greevale Street.

Mr. McCamphill eventually sold The Pizza Parlour in 2009 to current owner Gary McNeill.The restaurant still operates as one of Ballymena’s popular eateries on Broughshane Street in the town.

Don passed away on Sunday 26th January, surrounded by his loving family.

Paying tribute to Don, Gary McNeill shared: “We are sorry to report the passing of Don McCamphill, the man who set up the original Pizza Parlour in 1980.

“Don was a pioneer in the food business, and a trailblazer in the Northern Irish pizza sector. The first pizza parlour in Ballymena was only 12 tables, seating about 30 people, and was located on William Street in Ballymena.

“From these small beginnings Don developed what was to become a unique culinary landmark and a much loved night spot. His funeral took place at Saint Joseph’s Church in Dunloy on Tuesday 28th.

“Having had the pleasure of working for Don between 1990 and 1997, I can safely say the man was a proper gentleman. Don was very much a father figure to me throughout those years. For all the guidance and advice over the years, thank you.

A funeral notice published by Seamus Fitzsimmons Funeral Directors states:

McCamphill (Dunloy)

Daniel (Don) RIP

Died 26 January 2025 peacefully in the expert care of the staff of Kings Castle, surrounded by his loving family.

Devoted Father of Tracey, Don, Paula, Jarlath and Neil.