Again, the secret might be in the bloodline.
"My 15-year-old son Francis has been a cashier since he was 11. He probably knows more about the computer system than I do. He really loves the store," Cardullo said.
Though times are changing in Harvard Square--the bright Abercrombie & Fitch sign that can be seen through the Cardullo's window says as much--Cardullo said he is confident in the future of the store.
"My father really believed in Harvard Square," Cardullo said. "He was here for 53 years. I am terribly afraid that the small shops in the Square may be forced out because of the rent, and I would hate to see that. Tourists want to come to Harvard Square because of the uniqueness of the shops."
But long-term, of course, it's regular customers that matter.
"We don't compete with the Williams-Sonomas of the world," Cardullo explains. "We're in our own little niche. We listen to what the customers want."
And though he's been there for nearly half a century, Cardullo maintains that his shop never ceases to surprise him.
"There is never a shortage of work. That's the thing about being the owner. If we are short a cashier, I become the cashier."