A double celebration for Gino’s in Robertsham

They did it again. Gino’s, the family-run business has reclaimed its title as South Africa’s best pizza restaurant in the Porcupine Ridge Pizzeria Challenge in the same month it proudly celebrates its 40th year of trading.

The Joburg South restaurant, an old favourite that has stood the test of time, won the inaugural competition two years ago but was knocked from the top spot last year by Cape Town-based Ferdinando’s Pizza.

They were more determined than ever to take the top prize in its ruby anniversary month.

Owner Gino Mazza was delighted with the victory.

“We were overjoyed to hear the news of our winning again this year! It was a tough competition with so many restaurants participating. We are proud to hold up the gold plaque once again and celebrate the victory with our customers and staff.”

Although Gino’s, which opened its doors on November 1, 1983, was the brainchild of the eldest son Gino, the entire family, from father Guiseppe (Babbo) to mom Antonia as well as sisters Carmela and Maria and youngest brother, Domenico (Dom), were drawn into the business in true Italian style.

Today they have two family-run restaurants. The original Gino’s still remains in the heart of Robertsham and is run by Mazza, his sister Carmela and his daughter Giulietta. Other family members help out on weekends and school holidays and several of the first staff members are still loyal employees. Many original customers now visit with their children and grandchildren.

Babbo and Antonia have since retired and spend their time between their village of Monte San Giacomo, in southern Italy, and South Africa.

The second Gino’s opened in Stellenbosch in 1996 with Dom in charge. This restaurant took third place in this year’s Porcupine Ridge Pizzeria Challenge.

Giulietta said, “Our customers were very supportive throughout the competition, we felt their love and support throughout. They enjoyed the competitive spirit as much as we did. It had a positive impact on our business and reminded people that we are still going strong after 40 years. It is also a validation of what we do.”

Added her father, “Our success is down to the fact that we provide great service and fantastic pizzas. We have not and will not change a thing because our customers love consistency and know what to expect when ordering Gino’s pizza. Hearing customers say, ‘It’s always the same, nothing ever changes,’ is a part of our brand.”

He said the establishment’s best seller and signature pizza is the Chiattona, ‘the one with everything’, as customers affectionately call it. They also have a signature oval shape, a firm favourite with customers.

For him, a pizza must have a good crust and quality cheese and ingredients. His personal favourite toppings are bacon, anchovies, olives and onions and he believes anything that can be put on a slice of bread can be used as a pizza topping.

Gino’s is at 126 Harry Street, Robertsham and may be contacted on 011 680 1819.

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