Fantini’s celebrates successful world premiere of A Slice of America: Charred in the Florida Sun
The world premiere of Slice of America: Charred in the Florida Sun on July 11 at the historic Lyric Theatre in downtown Stuart was a resounding success, featuring the beloved Fantini’s New Haven Style Apizza. An enthusiastic legion of 467 fans gathered to celebrate the local restaurant, owned by entrepreneur Jimmy Fantin, and its unique style of pizza originating from New Haven, Connecticut. Directed by Gorman Bechard and produced by Colin M. Caplan, the film will be released on pay-per-view and DVD on December 12, 2024.
Jimmy Fantin’s journey into the world of pizza began at age fifteen as a dishwasher at Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana in New Haven, CT. His passion for apizza and dedication to his craft propelled him through the ranks, ultimately becoming a master pizza maker. Fantin moved to Florida in 1996 and built a successful career in real estate and the mortgage business, but his passion for pizza never waned. He opened Fantini’s in the North Stuart Plaza in Stuart in late 2019, right before the COVID pandemic. His business took off and even attracted Dave Portnoy, founder, and owner of popular Barstool Sports, who reviewed his pizza, giving it rave reviews. The next day, people were lined up around the corner for their fix of New Haven-style Apizza.
Bechard kicked off the premiere by welcoming the audience and explaining the concept of the collaboration between himself and producer Colin M. Caplan. The Mayor of Stuart, Becky Bruner, spoke before the movie began, highlighting Fantin’s success as an entrepreneur and presenting him with a Key to Stuart. City Manager Mike Morrell, who was featured in the film, also attended.
After the film, Bechard led a Q&A session where the audience asked questions of Fantin and Caplan. Fantin announced the opening of his newly designed and built-out restaurant, renamed Fantini’s Italian Restaurant, featuring New Haven Style Apizza. The grand opening of Fantin’s new expansion, Fantini’s Italian Restaurant, occurred on July 12th. Located in the North Stuart Plaza, 1670 NW Federal Highway Stuart, Florida 34994. Fantini’s old location will be transformed into a new restaurant opening this fall, featuring New Haven style breakfast and lunch, The Elm City Cafe.
“I am overwhelmed by the support of the community,” said Jimmy Fantini. “I am thankful for my friends, family, and my loyal customers who believe that New Haven Apizza is the best pizza out there. For those who have not tried it, I invite you to come out to Fantini’s in Stuart and let me cook for you. Experience the real New Haven Style Apizza.”
About Fantini’s New Haven Style Apizza:
Jimmy Fantin opened Fantini’s New Haven Style Apizza in Stuart, Florida, in 2019. His journey into the world of pizza began at age fifteen as a dishwasher at a renowned pizzeria in New Haven, Connecticut. His love for apizza and dedication to his craft saw him rise through the ranks to become a master pizza maker. Jimmy brings this talent to South Florida, offering the community an authentic New Haven pizza experience.
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