Gino’s celebrates 40 flavourful years

Gino’s Paesa Pizzeria in Robertsham has achieved yet another milestone.

On November 1, the popular Johannesburg South pizzeria celebrated its 40th anniversary.

Gino’s first opened on November 1, 1983. The restaurant started with the current owner, Gino Mazza, his mother and a business partner named John.

“Later, the whole family was pulled into the business,” expressed Mazza.

The business grew when Gino’s father, brother and sisters joined in.

Gino’s, as the pizzeria is known, was located on the other side of Harry Street for three years and later moved to its present location.

“We struggled for the first two years because the restaurant was new to the area, and we could only fit 30 to 40 people. To see how far we have come with our door remaining open is a huge achievement,” highlighted Mazza.

Mazza’s daughter, Giulietta Mazza, said, “Family has been an important part of the story and history of the restaurant. It started with family, and as the family gathered, the business grew. The vision for the restaurant is to bring people together, especially families, and to this day, it stands on that vision.

“I think people continue to come for sentimental memories such as birthday celebrations, Christmas gatherings and socialising.”

The restaurant fuses South African and Italian flavours to suit the taste buds of the locals. Gino’s is popular for its pizza’s, lasagne and stews.

“Our traditional Italian dishes are what we are popular for. People enjoy the heartiness of the tastes,” explained daughters Giulietta and Daniella Mazza.

“Value for money has, most importantly, contributed to the continued success of the restaurant. We have always tried to provide our locals with quality food at a low price,” said Mazza.

Overcoming challenges

The restaurant has endured many hardships and challenges, such as the Covid-19 lockdown, ingredients increasing in price, load-shedding and water shortages, yet strives to give the locals only the best Italian flavours.

“We have survived 40 years, maybe we will survive another 40. I hope to be one of the oldest pizza makers in the world,” emphasized Mazza.

He hopes the public learns perseverance from the business. “Some days are hard for many of us, but we should aim to show up despite how we may feel. I always say it’s like playing chess. Every morning, you wake up and don’t know what the next move will be, but you play either way,” said Mazza.

Highlights of the 40 years

Surviving Covid-19 is one of the highlights of Gino’s Paesa Pizzeria and the winning of awards for best pizza.
Giulietta added, “My husband and I got married in the restaurant. That was one of the biggest highlights for me.”

This restaurant holds many memories and sentimental moments shared over delicious Italian flavours and drinks.