Photograph by ERB/Dufault Photography
Meet Billy
Always Asking, "How Can This Be Better?"
Chef Billy Manzo was the second American-born individual to earn the designation of Certified Master Pizzaiolo.
A culinary innovator, instructor, and entrepreneur, Chef Billy combines decades of hands-on experience with a deep understanding of the science and craft behind pizza.
His career has taken him from professional kitchens, including Wolfgang Puck's Spago in Las Vegas, to advanced pizza training in Italy, international competitions, restaurant ownership, and commercial product development.
Chef Billy trained at Accademia Pizzaioli and Scuola Italiana Pizzaioli in Italy, earning his Master Pizzaiolo certification. His experience includes developing original dough formulations, evaluating equipment, and building a wholesale pizza dough and shell business that expanded to more than 200 locations across Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.
A Galbani Ambassador and experienced industry speaker and panelist, Chef Billy continues to share his expertise with pizza professionals while developing new products, including Billy Manzo Pizza, a frozen pizza product.
What distinguishes Chef Billy is how he thinks. He starts with the desired result, questions assumptions, experiments, and develops practical solutions that work.
For Chef Billy, the food always wins.
Career & Milestones
Master Pizzaiolo
Certified through advanced training in Italy at Accademia Pizzaioli and Scuola Italiana Pizzaioli.
Master Instructor
Awarded the title of Master Istruttore by Accademia Pizzaioli in 2019, with additional training in Neapolitan and gluten-free pizza.
Restaurant Ownership & Operations
Founded and operated two Federal Hill Pizza restaurants, gaining extensive experience in restaurant development, operations, and management.
Commercial Product Development
Built a wholesale pizza dough and shell business that expanded to more than 200 locations across Rhode Island, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.
Industry Recognition
Earned third place in the pan pizza division at the International Pizza Challenge.
Industry Speaker & Panelist
A sought-after speaker and panelist at pizza industry expos and conventions, sharing his expertise in pizza making, product development, and innovation.
Galbani Ambassador
Currently serves as a Galbani Ambassador, collaborating with the brand and sharing his pizza expertise through professional culinary engagements.
Billy Manzo Pizza
Currently developing a frozen pizza product under the Billy Manzo Pizza name.
Community Involvement
Founded Chefs Feeding Kids, a nonprofit initiative focused on food, nutrition, and culinary education for children.
In the Press
Rhode Island Monthly
May 2019
Meet Rhode Island's Only Master Pizzaiolo
A look at Chef Billy's Italian training, professional journey, and expertise in the pizza industry.
Read the Article →