Pitch Pizzeria in Omaha, Nebraska: Meet the Chef

Apr 3

Meet the Chef: PITCH PIZZERIA IN OMAHA, NEBRASKA

We sat down with Executive Chef Manny Carino of Pitch Pizzeria in Omaha, Nebraska. With locations in both Dundee and West Omaha, a visit to Pitch Pizzeria is a must. Known for its creative flavor combinations, wood-fired pizzas, and stylish, modern atmosphere, Pitch Pizzeria has become a standout dining destination across the state.

Pitch Pizzeria in West Omaha and Dundee, Nebraska: Meet the Chef

Whether you’re enjoying a night out in West Omaha or Dundee, this popular spot delivers some of the best pizza in Nebraska alongside craft cocktails and a vibrant, upscale casual experience.

Tell us about what your morning routine looks like, and how you like to end your day?

I prefer to start my day early with a simple routine: some coffee, a walk with my dog, news updates, and a shower. I use my commute to the restaurants as a time to reflect and plan for leading our chef teams. I end the day with dinner with my wife and kids. Afterward, I’ll usually have a shower and perhaps a glass of wine, always feeling grateful for a productive day.

Do you have a favorite chef that you look up to and what advice would you give to aspiring chefs?

Thomas Keller is a favorite. My advice to aspiring chefs is to always be a "verb"—focus on action. Prioritize simplicity, freshness, and quality.

Do you have any awards or achievements you’d like to mention?

I feel my true award is leading and working with the strong teams at Pitch and helping them improve. My biggest rewards are seeing our restaurants busy seven days a week.

What do you typically cook at home?

I like to keep it simple and grill at home. My go-to meals are burgers, hot dogs, and a full head of cauliflower prepared with orange juice, salt, pepper, and butter.

What’s a food trend that you’re loving right now and why?

I believe trends are temporary. No one ever stops visiting a restaurant because the food is too good. We create new pizzas every week, and I consider that our “trend.”

What’s the strangest food combination you’ve ever tried? And did you like it?

I was once asked to try a mac & cheese pizza; it is safe to say that will never happen again. Despite winning the Golden Noodle for our house-made pasta mac & cheese, it did not translate well to a pizza.

What drink do you enjoy most?

I enjoy an ice-cold beer while grilling, but my go-to is a heavy Cabernet. We produce five private wines in Napa, and our Platinum Cabernet and No Offense Zinfandel are at the top of my list.

Have you ever cooked for a celebrity? Do you have a story to tell?

I have cooked for Kid Rock. We have also hosted many VIPs with Berkshire Hathaway and many other wonderful guests who truly enjoy the Pitch experience.

What’s your Instagram so readers can follow you?

Follow me at @carino3418 and Pitch Pizzeria at @pitchpizzeria.

Why should readers visit PItch Pizzeria in Omaha, Nebraska?

People should visit Pitch because we want our "VIPitches" to forget what day of the week it is and simply enjoy the culinary experience. One of my favorite things is when guests trust our process so much, they don't even ask for a menu.

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