Welcome to the Family
We're so glad you're here. Pull up a chair and let us tell you a little about ourselves.
Where It All Began
Back in 1998, Joe Russo had a simple dream: to share the pizza he grew up eating with the people of Bayonne. Armed with his grandmother's cherished Brooklyn recipes and a whole lot of heart, he opened his doors with a wood-fired oven, a handful of tables, and a promise to never cut corners.
His grandmother, Maria Russo, came over from Naples in the 1950s and spent a lifetime pouring her love into a tiny Brooklyn kitchen. She always told Joe that great pizza doesn't need to be complicated — just good tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and dough given the time it deserves (48 hours, to be exact). Simple, honest, and absolutely delicious.
It didn't take long for word to spread. What started as a little neighborhood spot became a true Bayonne institution. Families like the Kowalskis have been coming in every Friday night since our very first week. The local firefighters swing by after nearly every shift. These aren't just customers — they're friends, and they're the reason Joe shows up every single day with a smile.
These days, Joe's daughter Sofia keeps the front of house warm and welcoming, while his son Marco works his magic in the kitchen. And if you look closely, the grandkids are already sneaking dough when no one's watching. The recipes haven't changed. The oven is the same. And every pizza that comes out of our kitchen still has that same love baked right in.
Joe Russo
Owner & Head Chef, Joe's Pizza
What We Stand For
The things that matter most to us — and why we think you'll taste the difference.
Fresh Ingredients
We source locally whenever possible. Our produce is delivered fresh daily. We import San Marzano tomatoes directly from Italy. No cans, no concentrates, no compromise.
Family Recipes
Nonna Maria's recipes have never been written down — they live in our hands and our hearts. Every dish we serve carries 70 years of Italian-American cooking tradition.
Community
Bayonne is our home. We sponsor Little League teams, donate to local food banks, and stay involved in what makes this city special. When the community thrives, we thrive.
We'd Love to Meet You!
Whether it's your first time or your hundredth, you'll always get a warm welcome here. Come on in, take a seat, and let us take care of you.