By: Joselin Estevez

In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, while live event planners faced an uncertain future, two Italian‑American friends—Anthony Cardinale, a well-known DJ, and Joseph Pisano—transformed a backyard pizza party into a local culinary movement. With a wood‑burning oven borrowed from Anthony’s parents, they invited neighbors for “Culo Grosso” pies—just as big on flavor as they were on personality. The name, cheeky and literal in Italian, translated to “big *ss,” perfectly conveyed their approach: food with flavor, flair, and fun.

A Pop‑Up Phenomenon

When a friend booked the duo for a private event, they decided to raise the bar—turning their backyard oven into a mobile wood-fired pop‑up. Blending authentic Neapolitan technique with creative toppings (such as the “How The Fig U Doin’” Pie), their pizzas helped redefine what street food could be.

By mid‑2020, CG Pizza was gaining significant traction: private events, festivals, and even celebrity gatherings featuring athletes and reality‑TV stars in NYC and NJ. Their signature vibe—DJ-curated beats, theatrical lighting, and the inviting aroma of a 900°F oven—elevated slice‑sharing to an experience. Their pizza blends Neapolitan style with a twist, and they’re open to experimenting with diverse options. The pizzas are freshly made right in front of you, whether in your home or at an event venue.

Craft and Quality

Behind the spectacle lies a strong focus on quality: tomatoes from Italy, flour milled to Napoli standards, mozzarella sourced locally, and 48‑hour‑fermented dough that produces an airy crust and a perfectly blistered finish in 90 seconds. What began as one oven in a van has since expanded to six mobile units, supported by pizza-oven brand Gozney, with plans for further growth, including a potential franchise footprint beyond New Jersey. However, their origins remain firmly rooted: each pie centers around family recipes and a deep appreciation for food, as taught by Nonna.

Brick‑and‑Mortar: The Bar by Culo Grosso

Their most recent venture, The Bar by Culo Grosso, is located in Sayreville, NJ. Co‑conceived with hospitality mentors Demetri and the late Kosta Rexinis, the space combines elevated Italian comfort food—such as calamari, tempura mushrooms, and shoestring fries—with cocktails, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere. Their goal is to bring that same family warmth and pop‑up energy into a more traditional, sit-down setting.

Open daily, The Bar invites guests to relax and feel at home—complete with community activities like tree-decorating during the holiday season.

Faces Behind the Flavor

Anthony Cardinale: A DJ turned pizzaiolo whose background in event planning helped shape CG Pizza’s theatrical vibe. Passionate about perfection, he crafted dough and toppings that balance tradition and creativity.

Joseph Pisano: Co‑founder and fellow Italian‑American, whose experience catering weddings and family gatherings influenced the brand’s sense of warmth and hospitality.

Their team also includes cousin Joseph Mazzeo, who serves as their reliable right-hand man. They maintain a close-knit team, which is a rarity in the food service industry today.

Looking Ahead

From pop‑up events to more permanent establishments, Cardinale and Pisano are pursuing growth while staying true to their roots. With brick‑and‑mortar locations, multiple trucks, Gozney partnerships, and statewide aspirations, they’re creating more than just a business—they’re cultivating a lasting Italian‑American culinary presence.

In their own words: “Keep moving forward, stay focused, and learn from mistakes—never give up.” This wisdom, shaped by the challenges of the pandemic and by lessons from Nonna, continues to guide them.

As they look to the future, the duo aims to expand into the tri-state area and potentially beyond. Always exploring different types of Neapolitan pizzas, their goal remains to preserve the “old school” while embracing innovation to create an evolving menu that reflects the changing times.

Final Slice

CG Pizza reflects a significant moment in American culinary culture—where hunger, heritage, and hospitality come together in a wood‑fired crust. It’s pizza as an experience, a connection, and a lasting tradition. In an era filled with fleeting trends, Anthony and Joseph are building something more enduring—one legendary slice at a time. Follow them on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/cg.pizza.