MARIO'S AND PAPAS HISTORY

Mario’s Seawall Italian Restaurant began in 1973 by Antonio and Nilde Smecca along with their two sons, Joey and Johnny. Little did these Italian immigrants know that they would one day become a family success story as restaurateurs in Galveston. To pursue his dream, Antonio moved his family from New Jersey to Galveston, which reminded him of his hometown of Gela, Sicily, which also had a seawall. He had the chance to take over Mario’s Flying Pizza on the Seawall and after 32 years, his family is still serving homemade Italian specialties, the freshest seafood and its original flying pizza.

Mr. Smecca learned how to “fly pizza”, his wife, Nilde, put together her best recipes, and business flourished. Joey and Johnny were literally raised in the business.

In 1997 Johnny and Joey started Papa's Gourmet Pizza and Subs. Papa's is known for its homemade flying pizzas and subs along with wings, calzones and salads.

GALVESTON RESTAURANT GROUP

In 1998 Johnny, Joey along with friend Danny Hart started GRG, Galveston Restaurant Group. The first concept established was Saltwater Grill, an upscale casual restaurant serving Seafood and Steaks. It has been recognized by Zagat and MSN.com along with a host of publications as one of the best restaurants in the state of Texas. The Saltwater grill is the home of the Award winning "Serious Fun Project" which raises money to support the arts for children. It has raised over $12,000. Since it began in 1999 and continues today.

Yaga's cafe the second restaurant in the company is a partnership with Mike Dean the founder and operator of Yaga's Cafe. This acquisition in 2001 has been a tremendous success for the company and has opened the door for future acquisitions. Yaga's is known and has been recognized by many publications for its casual atmosphere but outstanding food. Some of the favorites include, the Rasta Pasta, Turkey Burger and Chili. The Smecca's introduced its homemade pizza's as part of its acquisition, which has proved to be a huge success.

Mario’s Seawall Italian Restaurant at 628 Seawall Blvd, is popular for its homemade Italian cuisine and “flying” pizzas. Papa’s Pizza located at 4400 Seawall Blvd., offers a casual atmosphere to dine-in for piping hot pizza, hot subs and garden fresh salads. Visitors as well as residents take advantage of their delivery and take-out services too. Saltwater Grill is a perfect place for a business lunch or for a special night out. The freshest seafood tailored to contemporary tastes. One of Galveston’s favorite nightspots is Yaga’s Tropical Cafe/Club. Located in the 2300 block of The Strand for Island-Style good times. Though very casual in attitude the food is everything but casual.