Personal History

Phyllis and Richard opened “The Big Tomato” restaurant in Pinecrest , Florida in August of 1994. Few people believed that another pizzeria in Miami , could be any different than the next. However, they would soon eat their words and the unique delicious crust of the gourmet tomato pie. Within six months “New Times Magazine” voted “The Big Tomato”, Best New Restaurant in 1995, Best Pizza in 1996 & 1997 and Best Healthy Fast Food in 1998. Phyllis and Richard had very limited restaurant experience. Phyllis relocated from San Diego , California with a real estate background and Richard a CPA, relocated from Baltimore , Maryland . However, Richard had the great insight to recognize a good product under marketed and the ability to recreate the winning recipes.

The history of the tomato pie, dates back to early 1900's, when the Italians sliced fresh tomatoes on baked dough and called them Tomato Pies. After World War II, the Americans returned from Europe craving tomato pies, reproducing them with cheese and meat toppings calling them pizza pies.

Richard and Phyllis may have lacked experience in running a restaurant, but they obviously knew a lot about high quality, great tasting food. Their goal was to provide healthy, fresh food at an affordable price.

Ten years later, their recipe for success has developed into a thriving business. Learn our system for success. We will train you or your company for a one time fee in the art of making an award-winning gourmet pizza crust, salad dressing, and French boule breads. Educated customers are our testimony to the consistent quality and uniqueness of our products, making us “Best Pizza in Miami ” year after year.

But don't take our word for it because "you gotta eat it to believe it!"^SM

Come to sunny South Florida , train on site and never pay royalties.