Where It All Began

Chef/Owner Brian Gualtieri’s passion for cooking began well before Piccola Italia. A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Brian honed his skills and developed his approach to food while earning recognition on the Dean’s List and completing an internship at San Francisco’s acclaimed One Market Restaurant with honors.

After graduation, Brian returned to New Jersey, gaining experience at Mumford’s Restaurant in Long Branch and renowned New York City restaurants Chanterelle and Montrachet.

His career eventually brought him to Piccola Italia as Executive Chef - and ultimately, Owner.

Piccola Italia’s Story

Brian’s career eventually led him to Piccola Italia, where his role as Executive Chef grew into something much bigger. Over the years, he has continued to evolve the restaurant’s menu and culinary vision, blending fresh Mediterranean flavors, French influence with regional Italian traditions and his own creative approach to cooking.

For more than 20 years, Piccola Italia has been part of the Gualtieri family. Together, Chef/Owner Brian Gualtieri and his wife, General Manager Carolina Gualtieri, have helped shape Piccola into the beloved restaurant it is today: a fine dining experience with a relaxed atmosphere.

Often described as one of Monmouth County’s “best-kept secrets,” Piccola has grown into a place where great food, genuine hospitality and lasting relationships with guests are at the heart of everything we do.

Today, Piccola Italia remains proudly family-owned and operated in Ocean Township — welcoming generations of guests for dinner, celebrations, special events and memorable evenings together.