LOS ANGELES, CA – As the Southern California air turns crisp and the scent of pumpkin spice mingles with the thrilling screams from Universal Studios’ Halloween Horror Nights, a new culinary landmark is set to open its doors at Universal CityWalk Hollywood. Slice House by Tony Gemignani, the acclaimed fast-casual pizza concept from the 13-time World Pizza Champion, is preparing for its grand opening next month, October 2025, promising to deliver an unparalleled pizza experience to millions of visitors and locals alike. The legendary pizzaiolo himself, Tony Gemignani, is slated to attend the festivities, marking a significant moment for the brand’s ambitious expansion into the heart of Hollywood’s entertainment capital.
The arrival of Slice House at Universal CityWalk is more than just another restaurant opening; it’s a strategic culinary coup, perfectly timed to capture the heightened appetites and festive spirits of the Halloween season. With Universal Studios Hollywood transforming into a labyrinth of frights and delights for Halloween Horror Nights, the demand for quick, satisfying, and high-quality dining options reaches a fever pitch. Slice House, with its diverse menu of award-winning pizzas, is poised to become the go-to destination for park-goers seeking a delicious respite from the scares or a celebratory meal after a day of thrills.
This Universal CityWalk location represents a monumental step for Slice House, building on its successful Southern California expansion spearheaded by multi-unit franchise owner Vinny Margott and his family. The Margott family, known for their proven business acumen and genuine hospitality, has been instrumental in establishing Slice House’s presence across the Los Angeles area. Their commitment to the brand’s growth was evident with the successful opening of the Santa Clarita location in April 2025, which quickly became a local favorite, breaking records for its biggest opening day. This rapid success has paved the way for the highly anticipated Universal CityWalk debut, a testament to the Margott family’s vision and the enduring appeal of Gemignani’s craft.
Tony Gemignani, a Bay Area native whose passion for pizza has earned him global recognition, including the prestigious World Champion Pizza Maker title in Naples, Italy, has meticulously crafted a menu that caters to every palate. The Universal CityWalk Slice House will feature an expansive selection of Gemignani’s famous New York, Sicilian, Grandma, and Detroit-style pizzas, available by the slice or as whole pies. Beyond the classic offerings, the menu will also include gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian options, along with fresh pasta, wings, salads, and a curated selection of craft beers and premium wines. This comprehensive approach ensures that whether you’re a horror enthusiast craving a hearty meal or a family looking for diverse options, Slice House has something to satisfy every craving.
The decision to open at Universal CityWalk Hollywood, a world-renowned destination that attracts millions annually, underscores Slice House’s ambition to become a household name in Southern California.
“Universal CityWalk is a monumental location for Slice House,” said Tony Gemignani. “To have a restaurant that serves my craft pizza in the heart of one of Southern California’s most popular and exciting entertainment landmarks is a dream come true. We are thrilled to be part of this community and look forward to welcoming everyone next month.” Inside Universal and What Now Los Angeles previously reported on the summer 2025 opening, highlighting the significance of this prime location.
The grand opening events in October are expected to be a spectacle, with Tony Gemignani’s presence adding an extra layer of excitement. Known for his engaging personality and deep knowledge of pizza, Gemignani’s appearance will undoubtedly draw crowds, offering fans a chance to meet the master behind the slices. These events will not only celebrate the new location but also reinforce Slice House’s commitment to quality and community, a philosophy that has guided its growth from San Francisco’s North Beach to its burgeoning presence in Southern California.
As Halloween Horror Nights casts its thrilling shadow over Universal Studios, the new Slice House will offer a beacon of deliciousness. Imagine emerging from a haunted maze, heart pounding, and finding solace in a perfectly crisp New York slice, or gathering with friends after a day of exploring the park, sharing a Detroit-style pie and a craft beer. The synergy between the festive atmosphere of October and the diverse, high-quality offerings of Slice House is undeniable. It’s a pairing that promises to elevate the overall experience for visitors, making a trip to Universal CityWalk even more memorable.
The Margott family’s dedication to the Slice House brand is a key factor in this rapid expansion. Their understanding of the Southern California market, coupled with Gemignani’s culinary expertise, creates a formidable partnership.
We couldn’t be more excited to debut Slice House by Tony Gemignani at Universal CityWalk, a world-renowned destination that is home to acres of fun with many notable stores, restaurants, and entertainment establishments,” said Vinny Margott.
The success of the Santa Clarita location, which opened its doors in April 2025, serves as a powerful precedent. That grand opening was met with overwhelming enthusiasm, demonstrating the strong demand for Slice House’s unique blend of artisan pizza and fast-casual convenience. The record-breaking day in Santa Clarita underscored the brand’s ability to resonate with local communities, a crucial element for sustained growth in a competitive market. Now, with the Universal CityWalk location, Slice House is set to introduce its acclaimed pizzas to an even broader, more diverse audience.
Having witnessed the positive response to our other Southern California outposts, we look forward to sharing Tony’s world-renowned pizzas with visitors to the destination at this all-new Slice House venue.” What Now Los Angeles quoted Margott on the excitement surrounding the opening.
In a city that thrives on entertainment and culinary innovation, Slice House by Tony Gemignani is poised to make a significant impact. Its October grand opening at Universal CityWalk Hollywood, coinciding with the peak of Halloween and the thrills of Horror Nights, is more than just a business venture; it’s an invitation to experience pizza as an art form, crafted by a master and delivered with the speed and convenience that modern life demands. As the leaves turn and the nights grow longer, one thing is certain: the aroma of world-class pizza will soon be wafting through Universal CityWalk, beckoning all who seek a taste of true pizza excellence.
