Andrei Gheorghe: Passion, Leadership, and Innovation in HoReCa

Discover the story of Andrei Gheorghe, founder of Pizzeria Geniale, Camionetta Pizzeria, and Pasta Del Popolo, about leadership, innovation, and a passion for gastronomy.

Andrei Gheorghe, founder and HoReCa entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience, currently manages the brands Pizzeria Geniale – one of Romania’s most awarded food trucks – and Pasta Del Popolo.

C&B: How would you describe yourself in a single sentence to pique the curiosity of those who don’t know you yet?
Andrei Gheorghe: I am an entrepreneur who believes in the power of authentic taste and memorable experiences, building brands out of a passion for gastronomy and a desire to innovate.

C&B: If we look at a narrative thread of your career or business, what were the key moments that defined you?
Andrei Gheorghe: I run a family business in HoReCa that is now in its second generation. Since 2016, I have laid the foundations of Neapolitan pizza in Romania by launching the first food truck entirely dedicated to this product – Camionetta Pizzeria, a concept that brought us nationwide recognition. This was followed by Mamizza Pizzeria, Pasta del Popolo, and as of this year, a new member joined our family – Pizzeria Geniale, the newest pizzeria in the Herastrau area, a location with a retro and relaxed vibe.

C&B: What has been the most difficult moment in your journey so far, and how did you overcome it?
Andrei Gheorghe: Without a doubt, the pandemic was the toughest moment. We had to reinvent ourselves quickly, rethink our operations, and find new ways to stay close to our customers.

C&B: Is there a dream or ambition that has always guided you, regardless of obstacles?
Andrei Gheorghe: Yes, I have always dreamed of creating places where people come not just to eat, but to live an experience. This desire to offer something authentic and high-quality has remained constant in everything I’ve done.

C&B: What were you like at the beginning of your journey, and how do you feel you have transformed up to now?
Andrei Gheorghe: At the beginning, I was enthusiastic but had limited resources and knowledge. Today, I am much more attentive to strategy, the team, and long-term vision.

C&B: If we met with your team or collaborators, what do you think they would say about you?
Andrei Gheorghe: That I demand a lot because I care and because I want us to do things well, but also that they can count on me whenever they need support.

C&B: What is the most important decision you have made that changed your trajectory?
Andrei Gheorghe: The decision to launch Camionetta Pizzeria. It was an innovative concept for Romania at the time and opened doors for us at all the major festivals. It brought our brand in front of a huge audience and earned us national recognition.

C&B: How did you develop your leadership style or decision-making approach? Was it a natural process or learned?
Andrei Gheorghe: It was a mixed process. I learned from mistakes, from experience, but also from observation. I realized that a good leader must be present, listen, but also have the courage to make firm decisions.

C&B: What do you think differentiates your business or professional approach from the rest of the industry?
Andrei Gheorghe: Authenticity. We do not compromise on quality, whether it’s ingredients, recipes, or the customer experience. Each of our brands has a clear story and a strong identity.

C&B: What does a typical day look like for you now, and what moments of the day bring you the greatest satisfaction?
Andrei Gheorghe: I aim to balance family life with business, so the day begins with taking my son to school, followed by site visits, planning and discussions with the team, meetings with various partners or suppliers, and I dedicate the last part of the day to my family. Satisfaction comes from busy venues, customers’ smiles, messages of appreciation we receive, and the peace of being at home.

C&B: What values or principles guide you in what you do, and how do you apply them daily?
Andrei Gheorghe: Respect for people and quality. Every decision is measured against these principles: how it affects the team, how it affects the customer, and how we maintain high standards.

C&B: How did you come up with the idea to open this business and give it this name?
Andrei Gheorghe: For Pizzeria Geniale, I wanted a name that conveys the “wow” feeling we want our customers to experience. Camionetta was about mobility, and Del Popolo – about the simplicity and authenticity of Italian cuisine.

C&B: If you were to give a message to people who follow your example, what would it be?
Andrei Gheorghe: Don’t be afraid to start, even if you don’t have all the answers. Perseverance, passion, and the desire to learn will make the difference in the long run.

Andrei Gheorghe shows that passion, perseverance, and a desire to innovate can turn a simple idea into a successful HoReCa business.