Nancy Panzano and Mario DeJesse of Mario's Famous Cookies in Collingswood. Credit: Matt Skoufalos.
Mario’s Famous Cookies: Audubon Couple Opens Collingswood Bake Shop
Mario DeJesse hadn’t used his culinary degree professionally in years, until his girlfriend, Nancy Panzano, helped him believe it could fuel his next successful business venture. Now they're sharing his gourmet baked goods with customers at a new Haddon Avenue storefront.
Corporate offices say the store was closed when it couldn’t be modernized or expanded. Its opening day manager, Tate Perazzelli, recalls the impact the business had on the community and on his own life.
Sam Starobinsky says he will bring classical culinary training and sweat equity to the popular Collingswood eatery without losing what customers love about its menu and atmosphere. The North Brunswick native has worked in fine dining environments across the state, and most recently helped launch an artisanal pizza brand.