Our History & Philosophy
Joe's Italian Restaurant was established in June of 1981 in Gilroy, California by Giuseppe and Elvira Bertolone, whom emigrated from Italy in 1977 with their small children Michael and Sonia.
Joe's quickly became a beloved local icon and Gilroy landmark and has been featured in the Library of Congress and on the Food Network.
After dedicating 27 years of their lives to their successful family restaurant business, Joe and Mamma decided to retire, subsequently selling their beloved restaurant in early 2007, and retiring to Alabama to be closer to their daughters Mary and Sonia. Soon after, their son Michael, decided to join the rest of the family in Alabama and the adventure begins to unfold.
Michael, Mary and Sonia have joined forces to bring Joe's to Alabaster. Collectively we share with you our love and passion for Italian culture and cuisine.
We believe in fresh food, prepared with ingredients of the up most quality. We believe in excellent customer service. It is our goal to provide a clean and friendly family atmosphere and to be your locally owned and operated neighborhood restaurant.
We intentionally keep our menu limited to provide our customers with quality and delicious meals. Our daily specials will reflect the seasons and availability of fresh local and regional produce.
Welcome to our family and to Joe's Italian Pizza, Pasta & Caffe'. It is our pleasure and honor to serve you.
When you walk in the door you will likely be met by your host, Joe Bertolone! We serve only real Italian Culture to our guests. You will quickly feel at home - just like part of our family!
The real pleasure comes when you first taste Elvira's authentic Old World cooking. In addition to the regular menu, she prepares several wonderful Italian specials every day! Having learned to cook in her native Italy, Mamma Bertolone puts her magic touch on each item every day.
Behind the Counter, and supporting Mom & Dad, is Joe's son, Michael Bertolone. He is the producer who is responsible for serving up Mamma's delectable Italian treats. Nothing leaves the kitchen until Michael says it is properly prepared, presented, hot and ready for his customers!
Like the conductor of the Italian Symphony, Joe's daughter, Sonia Bertolone oversees the whole operation. She ensures that your service is great, your focaccia bread basket stays full and you are cared for like a member of the family that you are.
Baby of the family, Mary Bertolone-Carroll, recently joined the team as General Manager. She left the business world and came to Joes. Now, everyday she strives to give you, the customer, an even better experience here at Joe's.
