News

Palombino becomes first Pizza Festiva two-timer

March 30, 2005

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Call Tony Palombino a two-timer and he won't mind a bit.

The franchisor of two Tony Boombozz Pizza units here became the first pizzaiolo to win the

Tony Palombino

Pizza Festiva contest twice. The event is held annually in conjunction with the International Pizza Expo in Las Vegas.

Palombino beat three other competitors to nab first prize, awarded March 31, with his Chicken Fajita pizza.

"I was told there were more than 200 recipes submitted to get to the four they picked to come out here," said Palombino, whose first Festiva victory came in 1995. "This is unbelievable to win it again 10 years later. I'm really honored and excited."

As a semi-finalist, Palombino received $750 and an expenses-paid trip to Vegas. As the winner, he got a trophy, a gold medal and $2,500 cash.

"I need that for gambling. I've been losing my tail off here," he said.

The pizza

The Festiva-winning pizza.

contest veteran said meeting and networking with other competitors made the event a treat. "Being around this environment is awesome because you meet some really great people. I also got to taste all the other pizzas, and they were great. No question, this was a tough competition for the six judges."

Will two firsts cool Palombino's competitive fires? Not a chance, he said. Contests keep his creative juices flowing, and the winner's publicity is invaluable.

"I like to win, so I'll definitely keep trying," he said. "The effect something like this has on your business is incredible."