Youngest Chef On 'Diners, Drive-ins and Dives' Opens Somerset County Restaurant

SOUTH BOUND BROOK, NJ — At 18 years old, Giovanni LaCorte was the youngest chef ever featured on Food Network's "Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives." Now the chef at Joe's Meat Market has expanded to open his own restaurant Giovanni's right next door in South Bound Brook.

"It's official Giovanni’s is OPEN!!! What a labor of love and now the fun is about to begin," wrote joes.meatmarket.

Joe's Meat Market was featured on the television show with Food Network celebrity Guy Fieri in August 2022. After the airing, LaCorte later branched out to offer a pop-up of his restaurant Giovanni's on the weekends inside Joe's Meat Market.

Now he has his own space right next door at 113 Clinton St. in South Bound Brook.

"Born and raised in New Jersey, Chef Gio's love for cooking started at a young age. His journey began with humble beginnings, working in his parents' restaurant learning about food and cooking techniques. With time, he honed his skills, developed his own unique style, and was eventually discovered by a well-known food critic, Guy Fieri of Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives who gave him the chance to showcase his talent. Today, Chef Gio is a household name, known for his innovative dishes and culinary expertise," according to giovannis-nj.com.

Giovanni's Restaurant Italiano offers authentic Italian cuisine crafted from the finest ingredients.

"From handcrafted pasta to exquisite sauces, each dish is a celebration of traditional flavors and innovative flair. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy dinner for two or a festive gathering with friends and family, our inviting atmosphere and attentive staff ensure that every moment is special," according to the restaurant.

A ribbon cutting and grand opening was held on Feb. 22 with South Bound Brook Mayor Chris Shoffner.

"Thank God for Joe and Gio for bringing South Bound Brook back to the pages of family dining," said Shoffner at the ribbon cutting.

"I am so thankful for everyone to be here. We would have never been able to do this without everybody that supports us, every single day, every single month, every single holiday everybody always comes out and supports us," said LaCorte. "And it's going to be the same here, I know it is. I am so thankful."

For more information visit giovannis-nj.com or instagram.com/giovannisitalianrestaurant113 or facebook.com.

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