Thursday, March 20, 2025
Nestled in the heart of East Meadow, New York, Pietro’s is more than just a restaurant—it’s a community staple where guests feel like family. Known for its iconic sesame seed crust and welcoming atmosphere, Pietro’s has built a legacy of great food and heartfelt connections, led by owner Lauren Maslov and her dedicated team.
At Pietro’s, hospitality isn’t just a job—it’s a tradition. Customers regularly praise the warmth and professionalism of the staff, whether they’re stopping in for a quick bite or celebrating life’s biggest moments. The commitment to exceptional service and a family-like environment is what truly sets Pietro’s apart.
Meet the Team: Brian Perez
At just 16, Brian Perez joined Pietro’s as a dishwasher. From the start, Maslov’s husband, Andy, saw something special in him. “Andy noticed Brian’s drive right away,” she recalls. “He was hardworking, curious, and eager to learn. Andy used to say, ‘This kid is going places.’ And he was right.”
Now 21, Perez leads the pizza side of the kitchen, managing dough preparation, guiding assistant pizza makers and developing creative specials. Under the mentorship of executive chef Jack Ginty, he has honed his culinary skills and become an integral part of the team.
Beyond the kitchen, Perez’s journey has been one of resilience. As a first-generation immigrant, Andy deeply relates to his story. “I understand the challenges Brian has faced,” Andy says. “His success is a testament to his hard work and determination.”
Perez credits Pietro’s for providing not just a workplace, but a supportive second home. “The reason I’ve stayed so long is because of the team,” Perez says. “Andy, Lauren, Chef Jack—they’ve always had my back. It’s more than a job. It’s a family.”
Meet the Team: Isabella Shepherd
Four years ago, Isabella Shepherd joined Pietro’s through a family connection. What started as a summer job turned into something much more. “Lauren reached out to my dad, a childhood friend, for advice on the POS system,” Isabella recalls. “I stepped in to help and never left.”
Maslov quickly recognized Shepherd’s calm demeanor and big-picture thinking. “She has intangibles you can’t teach,” Maslov says. “She keeps a cool head in chaotic situations and has become an invaluable team member.”
Her leadership and dedication led to a well-earned promotion. In January of this year, Shepherd became Pietro’s restaurant manager, overseeing all front-of-house operations. She now leads event planning, reservations and daily service operations, ensuring a seamless and exceptional experience for every guest.
While balancing her studies to become a CPA, Shepherd has developed skills in organization, time management and leadership. She enjoys connecting with guests and recently had a family return just to see her. “It felt amazing to know I made such a lasting impression,” she shares.
Shepherd also takes pride in mentoring new team members, ensuring they understand the heart of Pietro’s. “It’s about more than learning the menu,” she says. “It’s about feeling connected to the restaurant’s story.”
What makes Pietro’s special?
For Brian, it’s the blend of tradition and innovation. “From our famous sesame seed crust to new menu specials, we offer something for everyone,” he says.
For Isabella, it’s the sense of community. “Pietro’s isn’t just a place to eat—it’s a place where people feel seen and cared for.”
Founded in 1976 by Maslov’s grandfather, Peter Ippolito, Pietro’s has always been a family affair. From her great-grandmother in the kitchen to her father, John Arigo, taking the reins in 1986, the restaurant is steeped in history.
Today, Maslov and her team continue that legacy, ensuring that every guest feels like part of the Pietro’s family. Because at Pietro’s, it’s never just about the food—it’s about the people who make every visit special.
For more information, visit pietros-pizza.com.
