After 23 years of serving the Hoboken community, the beloved H&S Giovanni’s Pizzeria, located at 603 Washington Street, has announced its permanent closure on its Instagram account, writing: “It is with a heavy heart that we announce our permanent closure on Wednesday, December 25th, as we were unable to agree to terms on a new lease.” In their announcement, Giovanni’s specifically thanked our community at Stevens for being great neighbors and for continuing to support their business. “Thank you to the students, staff, coaches, and administration that not only supported us as customers, but as great friends throughout our time here,” they said.
Giovanni’s, popularly referred to as Gio’s, was a student favorite and one of the most recognizable restaurants on Washington Street. With its closing, the Hoboken community is now filled with long-lasting sadness and nostalgia as it says goodbye to this cherished spot. Its iconic presence, whether as a quick lunch break or as catering for a student organization event, will not be forgotten.
With its menu ranging from pizzas, pasta, and subs, Gio’s was not only a place to dine but also a comfort spot for many. It held a special importance to the Stevens community, being only a block away from campus. For students rushing between classes or looking to grab a late-night slice, Gio’s was more than just a restaurant — it was a home away from home. The warm, inviting atmosphere and friendly staff made every visit feel personal, creating memories that now hold a special place in our hearts.
Although Gio’s may no longer serve Hoboken, its legacy lives on through its second family-owned location, Imposto’s, also located on Washington Street. Imposto’s opened over 25 years ago, but in March of 2020, Alban and Bler Malota, sons of Sphen Malota, one of the owners and founders of Giovanni’s, bought the restaurant, renovated the space, and completely changed the menu and recipes to fit their family’s style. They are now determined to carry on Gio’s legacy at their location.
The brothers started working at Gio’s when they were teenagers and continued until they opened Imposto’s. When asked about the impact that Gio’s closure had and will continue to have on their family, Bler shared: “It’s sad as we grew up with it as our family business and we had many great memories there over the years.” He also expressed that along with the grief they are feeling, they are also blessed with the “outpouring of love and support” that the Hoboken and Stevens community have shown to their family. “We are happy that we can continue to provide great food and hospitality to the community for many years to come.”
A Stevens favorite from Giovanni’s was their Chicken Vodka Parm Sub, so to honor and pay tribute to their father’s restaurant, Bler and Alban have decided to add the famous sandwich to their menu at Imposto’s, naming it “Gio’s Vodka Parm Sub.” The addition serves as a meaningful tribute to the countless customers who loved the signature dish and a way to preserve Gio’s legacy in Hoboken.
Giovanni’s continues to be remembered in the memories of those who dined there, including many of our own Stevens students and those who found comfort in its warm, inviting space. Hoboken has lost more than just a pizzeria; it has lost a piece of its heart. Yet, through Imposto’s and the Malota family’s dedication, the essence of Gio’s will continue to live on, preserving a legacy that touched the lives of so many.
