Salvatore's Italian Restaurant & Pizza

Benvenuti! Welcome! At Salvatore's Italian Restaurant, we are proud to share our story, a story steeped in family traditions, both old and new. Our journey began in a small town nestled quietly in the mountains of Sicily known as Montelepre. This picturesque town is where our family's culinary journey began.

Imagine yourself standing on the piazza of centuries-old stucco homes, looking out over the deep blue Mediterranean Sea. The afternoon conversation of the townspeople blends with the clatter of a passing cart and the cackle of scattering chickens. The air is thick with the aroma of prepared meals, fresh fruits, spices, and vegetables. The land lies fertile and green. This is Sicily, and this is where our story begins.

Our founder, Salvatore Tinervia, like many Italian family men from small villages, wanted more for his wife, Vincenza Tinervia, and his sons, Giacomo and Giovanni. So, in 1971, the allure of America brought our family to Detroit, where Salvatore found work in construction with his uncle Giuseppe. Vincenza worked as a seamstress. They worked hard and saved until, in 1976, we moved to Grand Rapids.

With the money our parents saved, we opened "Salvatore's Pizza and Italian Restaurant" at 660 Stocking N.W. Our culture and upbringing gave us the talents that make our family's old-world recipes special. We take pride and careful attention to the quality of our food, and with the dedication of our whole family, it has taken Salvatore's a step up.and in 1986, a few steps over, to the present location, 654 Stocking.

And with our family's addition, including Giacomo's wife Frances, and their two sons, Salvatore and Gabriel, my wife, Barbara, and our son Emmanuel, here is where our family mixes tradition.the old and new.

At Salvatore's, we believe in the power of food to bring people together. Our menus offer a variety of options for every taste and occasion. Whether you're in the mood for a classic margherita pizza, a hearty pasta dish, or something a bit more adventurous, we've got you covered. Our menu is designed to offer something for everyone, from homemade breadsticks to creamy spinach artichoke dip, from chicken tenders to mussels al vino. We take pride in every dish that leaves our kitchen, ensuring that every meal is a memorable one.

We're proud of our history and the awards we've received, including the Neighborhood Business Award for Excellence, People's Choice Best Pizza in West Michigan, and Business of Distinction. But more importantly, we're grateful for the love and support of our customers who have made us a part of their family traditions.

At Salvatore's, we're more than just a restaurant. We're a place where families gather, friends meet, and memories are made. Come and experience the authentic taste of Italy, right here in Grand Rapids. We can't wait to welcome you to our table.