marcello-najm

Chef 

"Italian food is comfort food—each bite takes you back to a favorite childhood memory and makes you smile. My true passions in life are pizza, pasta, and people."

 Chef Marcello brings a rich legacy of family-influenced Italian cooking and generational recipes to Galla's Pizza & Tavern. Born in Lebanon, he moved to Rome, Italy, at age 17, where his Mother and Godmother introduced him to the essentials of Italian cuisine, such as choosing the right tomatoes and pasta and creating flavorful sauces with fresh, homegrown ingredients.

After his time in Italy, Chef Marcello relocated to France and graduated from Le Cordon Bleu culinary school. His journey continued through various European countries, connecting with local chefs, sharing conversations, delicious meals, and cherished recipes. Eventually, he made his way to the United States, where he gained experience working at his Uncle Joe's delicatessen before settling in Brooklyn Heights, NY, to work at a pizzeria. Tired of harsh winters, Chef Marcello moved south to Atlanta, where he founded Marcello's Pizza & Subs with his father in 1984 in Buckhead. He poured his love of pizza, pasta, and people into his restaurant for 38 years. At Galla's Pizza & Tavern, Chef Marcello continues to share his passion and expertise with authentic Italian dishes and buffalo style pizza.