Episode 48 - Love Is the Recipe: Jimmy Kunz on Building The Truffleist and Rita’s Pizza
Episode description
In this episode, we sit down with Jimmy Kunz, the founder and owner of The Truffleist, a unique company dedicated to creating elevated truffle products. Born into a culinary household, Jimmy's father was a celebrity chef, giving him a front-row seat to the high-stakes world of fine dining. However, after witnessing the intense time commitment it took to run a restaurant, Jimmy knew he didn’t want to follow in those same footsteps.
Instead, he took a different path—starting with a salami company and eventually discovering his passion for truffles. What began as a small gift for friends—truffle butter—blossomed into The Truffleist, a line of gourmet, truffle-infused products ranging from oils and salts to honey, sauces, and even salami. Today, you can find The Truffleist at upscale markets, online, and at pop-up events across New York City.
But Jimmy’s journey didn’t end there. Recently, he opened Rita’s Pizza and Provisions in Greenpoint, Brooklyn—a cozy neighborhood spot named after his grandmother. There, he combines his love of food, family, and flavor in a space where “Love is the recipe.” With truffle products integrated into many of the pizzas, Rita’s offers guests a warm, welcoming experience that reflects Jimmy’s culinary roots and heartfelt approach to hospitality.
Join us as we talk about the evolution of The Truffleist, the inspiration behind Rita’s, and how Jimmy Kunz is blending gourmet ingredients with family tradition—one slice at a time.
For more information about The Truffleist go to www.truffleist.com or follow on instagram @thetruffleist
For more information about Rita's Pizza & Provisions go to www.ritaspizzerianyc.com or follow on instagram @ritaspizzerianyc
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