Mark A. Rafter, Editorial Director July 16, 2025 Fountain Valley, California
From my days as Vice President at HCU, when we owned and managed what was then listed as the number one restaurant in the US by “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous,” I’ve always enjoyed consulting and reviewing restaurants. When a new establishment opens in my city of residence, I make it a point to check it out. Sometimes I receive an invitation, and other times I simply attend a Grand Opening. I recently happened into the Slice House by Tony Gemignani at 18120 Brookhurst Avenue in Fountain Valley, California. Upon my arrival, I was greeted with a genuinely pleasant welcome. “Can I help you?” This initial interaction immediately set a positive tone, as I always consider customer service to be among the top priorities when evaluating any eatery. The ownership at Slice House operates under a compelling customer service motto: “Unreasonable Hospitality.” What exactly is Unreasonable Hospitality? It’s “The remarkable power of giving people more than they expect,” a commitment to going above and beyond. Hospitality, in their view, is genuinely engaging with the person you are serving to make an authentic connection. If one visits Slice House, they will undoubtedly experience hospitality that transcends expectations.
I requested a moment to peruse the menu, which was filled with tempting varieties of antipasti, insalate, pizzas, vegan options, subs, and delightful desserts. As I examined the pizzas, it became clear that Slice House offers a world of authentic pizza flavors, available in five distinct styles by the slice or as a whole pie. Slice House by Tony Gemignani admirably fills a significant void in the artisan pizza space by offering regional styles of pizza to its pizza-passionate clientele. They achieve this by producing pizzas that are not only authentic and delicious but also utilize the freshest and highest quality ingredients. I was subsequently invited to tour their establishment, and I found the kitchen and prep areas to be exceptionally clean. The walk-in refrigerator was impeccably organized, and everything appeared incredibly fresh—a clear indicator of quality to anyone familiar with restaurant operations. I also noted a small desk with a computer and their own server, demonstrating their commitment to efficient operations. My observant nature allowed me to watch Dean and his Team diligently engaged in prep work, cooking, cleaning, and serving. This hands-on management approach, where leaders are willing to undertake even the smallest tasks, provides an excellent example and fosters strong leadership within the Team.
As I surveyed the Slice House, I couldn’t help but admire the decor. The restaurant was bustling, packed with families, a distinct departure from typical pizza parlors that often feature a less inviting atmosphere. I realized that Slice House isn’t merely crafting great pizza; they are cultivating a family-oriented experience, ensuring every customer leaves with a memorable impression. The brother-sister ownership duo, Dean and Darcy, shared insights into their family roots and their Italian mother, who they affectionately described as “the glue that always held things together.” They fondly recalled growing up with their mom making fantastic Italian food, and they passionately declared, “Our Passion = The Craft of Pizza Making.”
I ordered a slice. Often, when pizza is sold by the slice, it’s a small or medium portion at best, but in this instance, the pepperoni slice was so generously sized that its triangular shape overlapped the plate. I complemented my order with a Caesar salad and a fountain drink—diet, of course. I began with the salad and discovered that the fresh, homemade Caesar dressing had a truly wonderful flavor. As I enjoyed my salad, my eyes kept returning to that impressive slice of pizza. Then, I took my first bite. My immediate thought was, “Wow.” Finally, a place with a real New York Style pizza. It transported me back to my youth, to family trips to New York, and to the culinary delights of my mom’s sister, Aunt Millie, a fantastic Italian cook. Grandpa Catone, with his distinct Italian accent, would always proclaim, “It’sa all about the sauce.”
After several more satisfying bites of this pepperoni pizza slice, I was pleasantly full and requested a box, which was promptly delivered.
Dean and Darcy have signed a 10-unit franchise development plan with Corporate, with Fountain Valley serving as their inaugural location. They envision expansion into several areas, including West Los Angeles, Culver City, Marina del Rey, Brentwood, Manhattan Beach, South Torrance, Palos Verdes, Huntington Beach, Santa Ana, Costa Mesa/Newport Beach, South Long Beach, and North Long Beach. Their Team is currently actively searching for the next prime location.
Customers have the option to dine inside or enjoy the patio atmosphere outside under umbrellas.
Slice House by Tony Gemignani has already made a significant impact in the community through its catering services. Effective marketing often differentiates success from stagnation. Catering not only provides a service but also exposes the restaurant to many who might not ordinarily visit. In the case of Slice House, once people experience their catering at nearby businesses, they are compelled to stop in and become repeat customers. While pizza is universally popular, Dean and his Team are truly excelling in the catering arena.
Slice House offers convenient pickup or delivery options, which can be ordered through their dedicated app or directly at SliceHouse.com. They also feature a rewarding rewards program and, notably, offer free XL Pizzas for youth sports teams that reserve a pizza party with 12 or more uniformed players.
My readers can be confident that I will return and become a regular patron. If you desire authentic New York style pizza flavors, exceptional customer service, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere, I wholeheartedly recommend Slice House by Tony Gemignani.
slicehouse.com 18120 Brookhurst St. Fountain Valley, CA. 92708 (714) 716-2595
