Mama Rosa's
Cucina & Pizzeria
About us
Welcome to Mama Rosa Cucina & Pizzeria
At Mama Rosa, we serve more than just authentic Italian cuisine — we serve tradition, family, and a true home away from home experience. For over 25 years, our family recipes have been at the heart of everything we do, made with fresh ingredients and a passion for bringing people together around the table.
Our story is one of resilience and love. Theresa and her daughter Carmelina proudly carry on the legacy of Mama Rosa, honoring both the past and the future. At the heart of our kitchen is the memory of Vincenzo Gagliardi, our beloved son, brother, and chef. His talent and creativity inspired so much of what makes Mama Rosa special. After his passing in 2016, Theresa left the corporate world and pursued her culinary dreams, becoming a professional chef, while Carmelina remained dedicated to leading the restaurant with strength and grace. Vincenzo’s passion lives on in the “Weekly Specials,” many inspired by his very own recipes.
In 2018, a devastating fire took away nearly 20 years of memories, but not our spirit. Among the ashes, one priceless treasure was recovered — a portrait of Vincenzo, surrounded by written messages of love from family, friends, customers, and our cherished staff. Thanks to the Bayonne Fire Department, that portrait now hangs proudly in our new downtown location, watching over us as we continue his legacy. If you ever take a look closely at his portrait, you can see the ashes that still remain. At Mama Rosa, we are more than a restaurant; we are a family. Our dedicated team, lovingly called “The Mama's Fam,” works side by side to bring joy to our community through flavorful food and genuine hospitality. Our specialty is catering, where Carmelina's impeccable presentation and service shine, while Theresa's culinary expertise expands beyond Italian cuisine to create diverse, mouthwatering dishes — even desserts.
We invite you to be a part of our story. Whether you're a longtime customer or visiting for the first time, our doors are always open, and there's a seat at our table waiting for you.
With love and gratitude,
Theresa & Carmelina
Mama Rosa Cucina & Pizzeria