About Fontecchio's Foods

"I am fortunate to have been exposed to amazing Italian food all of my life. My products are inspired by a lifetime of these experiences. I am also inspired to create healthy products using the latest nutritional science and manufacturing processes."

~ P.J. Fontecchio

The La Bella Vita Hot Sauce recipe was born when Lodi, Wisconsin resident and local pizzeria owner, P.J. Fontecchio, wanted to offer his patrons an authentic Italian condiment.  Now, it’s a customer favorite and always found on the tables at PJ's Pizzeria located in the heart of Lodi. An appropriate origin for the unique hot sauce, the village of Lodi boasts an Italian heritage and its name comes from the province and region in Italy.

P.J.’s passion for all things Italian started from a very young age when he experienced the delicious flavors of his first-generation Italian-American grandfather’s recipes at the family’s restaurant that was located in Hurley, Wisconsin. Fast-forward many years later and having a successful career as a pizzeria owner, Chef, P.J. and his oldest daughter Patrice, decided to turn their passion for the perfect Italian condiment into a business.

Together, their creativity is endless. Whether it’s new sauces, fine recipes or getting back in the kitchen for the benefit of family and friends, their enthusiasm and drive are what you’ll see as they continue to make their mark on the worlds gourmet dressing and sauce stage.