The 2022 Northeast Pizza & Pasta Expo in Atlantic City, NJ was a huge success, drawing in hundreds of industry professionals and pizza and pasta enthusiasts from all around the country. From October 16 to October 17, the Atlantic City Convention Center was buzzing with activity as attendees, like the Just Like Dad’s Pizza family, enjoyed three full days of delicious food, informative seminars, and exciting competitions.
One of the highlights of the expo was the pizza-making competition, where some of the best pizzaiolos in the industry went head-to-head to create the perfect pie. Competitors were judged on a variety of factors, including crust texture, sauce flavor, and overall presentation. The competition was fierce, but in the end, only a select few were considered the champions of the expo! See the list of winners below:
Traditional
- 1st Place
- Jimmy Casapizziolo of Casa Pizzeria in Ludlow, Massachusetts
- 2nd Place
- Anthony Berghela of Romo’s Pizza in Slingerlands, New York
- 3rd Place
- Bill Cornell of Carmin’s Wood Fired Pizza in Joplin, Missouri
Non-Traditional
- 1st Place
- Christina Smith of State of Mind Pizzeria and Public House in Los Altos, California
- 2nd Place
- Brandon Bryant of Hudson and Packard in Hyde Park, New York
- 3rd Place
- Jeff Smokevitch of Blue Pan Pizza in Denver, Colorado
Neapolitan
- 1st Place
- Jay Jadeja of The Onion Tree Gastropub in Sea Cliff, New York
- 2nd Place
- Daniele Gagliotta
- 3rd Place
- Daniele Caridi
Other popular events included pasta-related demos and seminars, where attendees had opportunities to learn from some of the most skilled pasta chefs in the business. From fettuccine to ravioli, participants could learn the ins and outs of creating perfect pasta dishes that would impress even the most discerning palate.
In addition to the competitions and seminars, there was also a huge trade show featuring dozens of exhibitors showcasing the latest and greatest in pizza and pasta-related products and services. Attendees had the opportunity to sample new sauces, cheeses, and other toppings, as well as learn about new technologies and techniques for improving their pizza and pasta businesses.
Overall, our first visit to the Northeast Pizza & Pasta Expo 2022 was incredible. The event brought together the best and brightest in the industry, as well as pizza enthusiasts looking to learn everything they can about pizza-making. From the competitions and seminars to the trade show and networking opportunities, the JLDP fam had plenty of fun learning and connect with others who share their passion for pizza and pasta.
We can’t wait to see what next year’s expo will bring!