Salvo's Pizza and Pasta — Review by Randy Santel

The Dishes

The main event was Salvo's signature 36-inch diameter Godfather Pizza Challenge, a massive pie made with 80 ounces of dough weighing 5 pounds. The pizza was cut into an unusual pattern of eight triangles further divided into squares. Randy and Radim were allowed one topping choice and selected a pizza with multiple toppings split between them: mushrooms, sundried tomatoes, green peppers, and black olives. The mushrooms proved to be a standout, adding extra moisture that made those slices noticeably easier to consume. The sundried tomatoes also impressed Randy, who mentioned loving them on Italian sandwiches. All toppings were well-received, though the mushroom quarter emerged as both contestants' favorite. The homemade marinara red sauce was dipped throughout the challenge and noted as delicious. After completing the pizza challenge, they ordered cannoli for dessert, with both chocolate shell and vanilla shell varieties available, which provided a perfect finishing touch to their meal.

The Experience

The restaurant was packed with spectators cheering on the competitors throughout the challenge. The atmosphere was energetic and supportive, with the crowd clapping and cheering when Randy and Radim successfully completed the pizza. Staff were attentive and accommodating, even taking Randy's order for cannoli mid-challenge. The experience felt celebratory as they were making history as the first team to win at the Hermitage location, earning their names and photos on the Wall of Fame. The restaurant's environment showcased typical New York-style pizza establishment vibes with Italian restaurant charm, offering tiramisu and other Italian treats alongside their pizza offerings.

Value & Pricing

The base price for a 36-inch cheese pizza is $120, with the total Godfather Pizza Challenge price reaching $140-150 if contestants fail. However, winners receive their entire pizza meal free. Given that the pizza easily feeds multiple people and comes with substantial portions, the value proposition is reasonable for those confident in their eating abilities. The cannoli dessert was also included as a complimentary addition to their winning celebration.

Notable Moments

This is the weirdest sliced pizza I've ever seen. They cut it into eight triangles, and then cut it into squares.

The mushrooms add moisture!! I wanted to do anchovies or pineapple for the whole pizza, but he said no.

it's not me saying this. I'm just talking math, but Radim and Randy are faster than Brandon and Randy.

Not too many people have won here at the Hermitage location, and actually no team has won, so we are going to be the first team here on the Wall of Fame.

The Verdict

Salvo's Pizza and Pasta in Hermitage represents an excellent destination for pizza enthusiasts and competitive eaters alike. The Godfather Pizza Challenge is appropriately sized and difficult, requiring genuine speed and stamina to complete within the 30-minute window, yet it's achievable for dedicated competitors. The pizza itself is delicious with quality toppings that genuinely enhance the eating experience. This restaurant is best for those seeking an authentic New York-style pizza experience with legitimate challenge opportunities, as well as diners looking for traditional Italian-American cuisine including pastas and sandwiches. Whether attempting the challenge or ordering à la carte, Salvo's delivers on quality and value throughout the greater Nashville area.