Entrepreneurial Journey of Moises Ximello Sanchez
Moises Ximello Sanchez co-owns Mimmo’s, a pizza place in Tom’s River, New Jersey, known for its dedicated gluten-free options. After acquiring the restaurant from its founder Dominic Cartigliolia a year and a half ago, Sanchez and his partner, Everardo Flores, focused on building trust with customers, especially in a market where gluten-free dining accounts for approximately 40% of their revenue.
Background
Sanchez arrived in the U.S. from Mexico at 15, becoming a “Dreamer” in pursuit of a better life. He worked in restaurants while earning a GED and then a degree in biochemistry at Rowan University, which prepared him for his role in managing gluten-free practices at Mimmo’s.
However, his immigration status complicated plans for medical school, leading him to entrepreneurship as a way to support himself and contribute to his community.
Commitment to Gluten-Free Dining
With 15 years of experience in the restaurant industry, Sanchez emphasizes safety and details in preparing gluten-free meals. He directly addresses the importance of preventing cross-contamination—often a significant challenge in Italian cuisine.
To reassure customers that his restaurant continues its dedication to gluten-free options, Sanchez and Flores ensure that all gluten-free foods are stored separately and handled with extreme care. Their meticulous prep process has earned positive reviews, establishing confidence among patrons.
Balancing Roles
In addition to running Mimmo’s, Sanchez serves as a firefighter and is set to pursue further education at Ocean County College. His dedication to his work and community drives him, with a belief that he was “made for this.” His story illustrates the intertwining of personal ambition and community commitment in his entrepreneurial journey.
