Meet Jeff O'Connor: Co-Owner of Giovanni's Pizzeria & Ristorante

Northford isn't exactly what you would call a late-night destination. It's a beautiful neighborhood with some of the sweetest folks around, but after 8 o'clock, most businesses are lights-off and home for the night. 

You can, however, still see a few neon lights glowing off of Forest Road. It's  and they're open for you night owls out there. If you're anything like my boyfriend and me, you know that 9 at night is the perfect time for a cold Sam Adams and a piping hot slice of pizza. 

Co-owner Jeff O'Connor took a moment to talk to North Branford Patch before the dinner rush. 

North Branford Patch: What do you enjoy most doing business in North Branford?

Jeff O'Connor: The cutomers are friendly, I'm friends with everyone who comes in here. I grew up in Northford so I know everyone. 

North Branford Patch: What makes your business unique?

O'Connor: We're here to make everyone happy. The customer is always right and everyone gets along here. 

North Branford Patch: What brought you into this business?

O'Connor: I actually threw pizzas for Frank [Giovanni] when I was in high school. I've been here for 15 years. 

North Branford Patch: What is the most rewarding part of your job?

O'Connor: Talking to the customers. I was in the kitchen for 13 years and now I'm out here at the bar we opened about two years ago. It's also nice living two minutes from home, I can sneak out and see the kids from time to time. 

North Branford Patch: What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

O'Connor: I coach–baseball, basketball, football, soccer–along with sponsoring teams. 

North Branford Patch: What do you want your customers to know about your business?

O'Connor: This place is a home-away-from-home. We've got the bar here and people come in to get out, get away from life for a bit. 

Visit Giovanni's website for information on their hours of operation and menu.