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In this episode, we sit down with Mike Bergemann, owner of Corner Slice in Maplewood, NJ, recently voted #1 on NJ.com’s “101 Greatest Pizzas” for their iconic upside-down pie.

Mike’s journey is anything but ordinary. Growing up in New Jersey, his teenage dream was to be in a band. That dream took him on a road trip across the country to Portland, Oregon—where instead of finding just music, he discovered the culinary world. After a year of learning in kitchens out west, Mike returned east to continue pursuing music, but food kept calling him to the front stage.

With a unique mix of creativity, construction know-how, and management skills, Mike helped open legendary spots like Ivan Ramen and Ivan Ramen Slurp Shop in NYC before teaming up with his brother Pete to launch Corner Slice. Along the way, Mike realized something important: the restaurant world was his band. From the energy of the kitchen to the collaboration with his team, building a restaurant became his version of playing music—only now the guests are part of the show.

When the pandemic shifted the restaurant landscape, Mike brought his vision home to NJ—where it has since blossomed into one of the state’s most exciting pizza shops. Corner Slice isn’t just about great food. It’s a place where Mike creates a playful, welcoming universe for both kids and adults—a spot where community, creativity, and seriously good pizza come together.

If you love stories about passion, perseverance, and pizza that will change the way you think about a slice, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Follow Corner Slice: @corner_slice

Recording Location: Corner Slice Maplewood, NJ

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