Our Story

Umberto's of Long Island is owned and operated by the Corteo family.  Umberto Corteo, the establishment's namesake, was born in the rustic village of Monte Di Procida on the outskirts of Naples, Italy. To help feed their family of thirteen, Umberto and his siblings worked the fields of their father's farm. As the seventh son of eleven children, Umberto made the best of what little he had and gained an abundant appreciation for the simple gifts nature provided. 

Like many European people of his generation, Umberto learned of the promise of America, so while still a teenager, he and four of his brothers and sisters made the long journey to the United States and settled on Long Island, NY. Umberto saved every dollar he could to send to his mother and father in Italy, and put a small amount away with the hope that one day he would start a business of his own. 

Determined to live the 'American dream', Umberto and his younger brother Joe scraped together their hard-earned money, and in 1965  the original Umberto's of New Hyde Park on Long Island was born, quickly growing into one of the most successful Italian pizzerias on Long Island. Later, Joe Corteo moved to Florida and founded Umberto's of Long Island in sunny South Florida. 

The Corteo family's hard work continues to pay off, boasting over five locations in New York and Florida combined. The original Umberto's of New Hyde Park is a landmark, making appearances on the Food Network and LIVE with Kelly & Michael; it is even known for being the spot for the New York Giant's pre-game rituals!  Here in Fort Lauderdale, we work hard to bring Umberto's vision of authenticity, quality, and atmosphere to life and continue the Corteo family legacy.