The grand opening Slice House in Castro Valley by Tony Gemignani, was an emotional affair, marking the long-awaited return of the master pizzaiolo to the town where it all began.  It was over 30 years ago when a teenage Gemignani was first introduced to the business of pizza making at his brother’s restaurant, Pyzano’s Pizzeria, a family-friendly place known for its tasty food and cozy vibes. Gemignani would soon go on to become a professional pizza acrobat, and in 2007, became the World Champion Pizza Maker at the World Pizza Cup in Naples, Italy, the first American to do so.

Gemignani became an international sensation, winning global competitions —World Pizza Champion 13 times — and setting Guinness World Records. He has opened several successful pizza establishments, appeared on numerous cooking shows, written a handful of books and won many prestigious awards. But a return to Castro Valley was always on his mind.