After 34 Years, East Brunswick Pizzeria Owner Retires, Passes Torch

EAST BRUNSWICK, NJ — After 34 years, Steve, the owner of Stefano's Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria in East Brunswick, is retiring and handing the business over to a new owner, according to posts from the restaurant's Facebook page.

Steve opened Stefano's in 1992 and has owned the pizzeria with the support of his wife and two sons for 34 years, according to a July 5 post announcing the sale. The transition to new ownership took place on July 7.

"Serving East Brunswick and the surrounding communities for more than three decades has been a privilege," the July 5 post said. "We are deeply grateful to our loyal customers, dedicated employees, friends, and family for your support throughout the years."

In a follow-up post July 7, the Stefano's family thanked the community for its response to the announcement and asked customers to extend the same support to the new owners.

"We know they are excited to become part of this wonderful community, and we hope you'll welcome them with the same kindness and loyalty you've always shown us," the post said.

The post said the sale was not yet finalized as of July 7, and that Steve would remain at Stefano's during the transition to help ensure a smooth handoff.

The East Brunswick Police Department also marked the transition in a Facebook post Friday, thanking Steve for his longtime support of the department.

"For many years, Steve has been a tremendous supporter of the East Brunswick Police Department and our officers," the department said. "His generosity, friendship, and unwavering support of our department and the East Brunswick community have meant a great deal to us, and we are truly grateful."

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