Father-Daughter Duo Find Recipe For Success At Hillsborough Family Pizzeria & Ristorante

HILLSBOROUGH, NJ — Family and food have always been at the heart of Salvatore "Sal" Anzalone's business Joe's Family Pizzeria & Ristorante in Hillsborough.

Now his daughter Ylenia is following in his footsteps and poised to take over the restaurant at 856 Route 206 in Hillsborough.

"I am the only one carrying the family legacy," said Ylenia to Patch.

Sal was born and raised in Monte Di Procida, Italy. It is also where he learned to cook. At 14 years old, Sal immigrated to the United States and began working in a pizzeria with his uncle.

In 2002, Sal purchased Joe's Family Pizzeria & Ristorante, remodeled it, and created his own menu pulling from his experience in Italy.

"Everything on the menu is his idea," said Ylenia.

Ylenia, who was also born in Italy, began working with her father after high school.

"It was supposed to be a summer job but 11 years later I am here and I am going to take it over from my dad one day," said Ylenia.

Ylenia now serves as the manager of the pizzeria with many affectionately calling her "Little Boss."

Family is of utmost importance to the Anzalones. Every summer they try to go to Italy to see family and they all take off on Tuesdays to get together.

"My mom is one of nine kids and my dad is one of six kids. As a family, we don't do anything alone. It is either all 30 of us or none of us," said Ylenia. "Every week we get together on Tuesdays and my aunt or dad will cook for everybody. It's our way to show love to each other."

Sal and Ylenia invite the community to stop in for a slice of their "famous" Brooklyn pizza, salads, wraps, seafood dinners, chicken, veal, subs, and more.

"Everything is homemade. Our bread, dough, sauce, and soups," said Sal.

The restaurant is BYOB and offers dining, curbside pickup, catering, and room for parties.

For more information visit joesfamilypizzeria.com

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