Early Years

Pictured above left to right: Bernard and David Harteis in front of Johnstown Fish & Poultry Market 1975. If you look closely in the window a fish sandwich was only 60¢

In 1957 Bernard and Velma Harteis opened The Johnstown Fish & Poultry Market, on Clinton Street in downtown Johnstown selling fresh fish sandwiches to the hard working people of Johnstown. This would be there place of business for the next 20 years!

New Location & Name

Pictured above left to right: Bernard, Velma and David Harteis standing in front of their new location.

In 1977 a redevelopment project bought the original location and the family was forced to move to its current day location at 544 Main Street. Despite some re-opening delays due to the 1977 Johnstown flood the Harteis Family opened the restaurant under a new name, The Fish Boat. When asked how he came about the new name Bernard said “It just came to me.” Of course still offering the same fresh seafood and a much larger eat in section the new location was just what the family needed.

Bernard Harteis holding some of the fresh fish found in the new department

Passing the Torch

In 1990 Bernard and Velma Harteis decided it was time to retire. After 33 years of hard work they felt it was their turn to kick back and enjoy retired life. Although no longer the owners of The Fish Boat the couple would continue to help out the new owner, there son David. The Fish Boat has lived up to every aspect of being a family business. Bernard and Velma starting the restaurant and over the years employing all 3 of their children David, Sharon, and Loraine.

 It didn't stop there as the new owner and operators 2 children Wes and Greg would also have a go at the family business. From 1990 to present day David Harteis has been the proprietor of the business and has made a few adjustments over the years. Not by changing the food. The food still has the same quality people have become accustom to. The changes come in the appearance of the store with a new store front and the addition of catering services.

Hitting a Milestone 

This year The Fish Boat is celebrating 60 years in business! We would like to thank the people of Johnstown for your continued support through out the years. We couldn't have done it with out you and we look forward to many more years of providing delicious seafood to the people of Johnstown!
Thank You!