By: Tom La Vecchia

In the world of mobile pizza catering, few names have risen as quickly—and as impressively—as CG Pizza. What began as a small passion project has evolved into a full-fledged culinary brand known for quality, consistency, and unforgettable experiences. This year marks a major milestone for the company as it celebrates both significant expansion and a renewed focus on excellence in every pie they serve.

From Humble Beginnings to a Premier Pizza Experience

Founded with a simple idea—to bring authentic, wood-fired pizza to events across the region—CG Pizza quickly distinguished itself with its attention to detail and commitment to quality. From weddings and corporate gatherings to neighborhood festivals and private parties, the brand’s ability to bring the pizzeria experience directly to customers has set it apart in a competitive catering landscape.

Over time, CG Pizza refined not just its recipes, but its entire approach to hospitality. Each event became more than just a food service—it was an immersive experience. Guests were greeted by the warmth of the oven, the aroma of fresh basil and melted mozzarella, and a team that exuded professionalism and passion in equal measure.

A Year of Expansion and Excellence

If 2023 was about building the foundation, 2024 and beyond have been about scaling with intention. CG Pizza has expanded its operations, adding more mobile units, event coverage, and staff to meet growing demand. Despite the rapid growth, the brand has stayed true to its founding principles: quality over quantity and people over profit.

“This year has been about expansion along with dialing in on quality,” said Anthony Cardinale, founder of CG Pizza. “We’re proud to say in our busiest months, we were averaging over 25 events a week, totaling just about 500 events for this year. We had many obstacles to overcome, and with expansion, it’s important to build a team around the brand. I’m so proud of our team here, and we could not do it without them.”

That team-driven mindset has been central to CG Pizza’s success. In an industry where burnout and turnover are common, CG Pizza has built a culture that emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and pride in the product. Every team member—from the pizzaiolos who hand-stretch the dough to the event coordinators ensuring seamless service—understands that they are part of something special.

The Secret Ingredient: Quality and Consistency

At the heart of CG Pizza’s operation lies a simple but uncompromising philosophy: if you wouldn’t serve it to family, don’t serve it at all. Every pizza starts with premium ingredients—handcrafted dough, locally sourced produce, and authentic Italian cheeses. The ovens are wood-fired, ensuring each pie is perfectly blistered with that distinctive smoky flavor that only true Neapolitan-style pizza can achieve.

But beyond the ingredients, it’s the consistency that impresses. Whether serving a 300-guest wedding or a small backyard celebration, CG Pizza maintains the same high standards. That level of dependability has helped build a loyal client base and a growing number of referrals, highlighting the company’s consistent service and customer satisfaction.

Overcoming Challenges in a Competitive Market

Expansion hasn’t come without its share of challenges. As Anthony mentioned, 2024 brought new logistical hurdles, from scaling the workforce to managing the operational complexities of multiple simultaneous events. Supply chain disruptions and rising costs also tested the business’s resilience.

However, instead of cutting corners, CG Pizza has continued to prioritize its commitment to quality and innovation. The company streamlined its event planning systems, invested in staff training, and improved efficiency without sacrificing the handcrafted nature of its product. By staying agile and solution-focused, CG Pizza managed not only to sustain its growth but to elevate its reputation.

Photo Courtesy: CG Pizza

Building a Brand Beyond Pizza

Another key component of CG Pizza’s evolution is its growing brand presence. Through social media, local partnerships with NJ Digest, and word-of-mouth, the company has become synonymous with community engagement. Whether participating in charity events or supporting local schools, CG Pizza continues to find ways to give back.

That community connection has become part of the brand’s DNA. Customers aren’t just hiring a catering company—they’re supporting a business that invests back into the neighborhoods it serves. It’s this genuine, grassroots connection that keeps clients coming back year after year.

The Power of a Strong Team

Anthony’s words underscore a truth that resonates across industries: a business is only as strong as the people behind it. As CG Pizza scaled, Anthony prioritized building a core team capable of carrying the brand forward. Training programs, leadership development, and a shared sense of purpose have all been crucial in maintaining CG Pizza’s momentum.

“Building a team around the brand” according to Co-Founder Joseph Mazzeo has become more than a mantra—it’s the foundation of the company’s growth strategy. Each new hire is chosen not only for their skills but for their alignment with CG Pizza’s culture of craftsmanship, hospitality, and integrity.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for CG Pizza

With nearly 500 events completed this year and growing recognition in the catering and hospitality space, the future looks bright for CG Pizza. Plans for 2025 include additional mobile units, expanded service areas, and the possibility of a permanent brick-and-mortar location—a place where fans of the brand can experience CG Pizza year-round.

Even with ambitious plans on the horizon, Anthony remains grounded. “At the end of the day, it’s about people enjoying great pizza and great company,” he said. “We’re building something that lasts, and that means never losing sight of what got us here—hard work, passion, and a commitment to doing things the right way.”

A Brand That Delivers More Than Pizza

As CG Pizza continues to expand its footprint, it serves as a model for how small businesses can grow sustainably—by focusing on people, process, and product. In an age where many companies chase scale at the expense of quality, CG Pizza proves that the two can coexist when guided by the right vision.

The company’s success story is more than a tale of business growth—it’s a reflection of community spirit, culinary artistry, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. For Anthony and his team, every pizza served isn’t just a meal—it’s a testament to what’s possible when passion meets purpose.