Everyone in New York’s got an opinion on pizza. Scarr Pimentel’s slice is more beloved than most. Since 2016, the native New Yorker has been slinging pies on Orchard Street at Scarr’s, unafraid to call out the restaurant groups pricing out other mom-and-pop shops. Last year, he opened a stall in a Las Vegas food hall and published his first cookbook.
What is your biggest vice? Your greatest virtue?
Playing blackjack is probably my greatest vice. Greatest virtue would be being loyal, almost to a fault. I go above and beyond to help people. It’s the New York in me.
What’s something people get wrong about you?
People tend to assume I’m condescending, rude, etc. Those are people that don’t know me. I’m a well-guarded person and tend to keep to myself. Had to be growing up here in NYC. If you’re genuine and nice, I’ll put my guard down. You can’t BS me though, so don’t even try.
What do you want to see more of in your industry? Less of?
I would love to see more genuine and honest people with morals and ethics. That’s kinda disappeared in our industry. There’s still some real ones left, fortunately. Less, for sure, would be VC/PE-owned fake mom-and-pop restaurants/fast-casual spots. Also, owners who bend over and pay foodie influencers. It just ruins the vibes and environment.
What’s been the hardest part of your career so far?
Staying true to yourself and not giving in to foodie clique/media pressure. I blazed my own trail. Never kissed ass or begged for favors.
What grounds you, and what invigorates you?
My family and friends ground me. They always keep it real with me, whether I like it or not. They’re not scared to tell me the truth. My son is my true motivation now. I never want to disappoint him.
Where do you feel most at home?
Right now, Japan. Have been going for years now and the people are great. I feel at peace there.
When’s the last time you laughed hysterically?
Daily. I think that’s a big key to a long and fruitful life. I’m fortunate to have a group of friends from all over the world that have a good sense of humor. It’s always jokes with us.
What would you like the headline of your obituary to be?
“One of the realest n****s to ever live.”
What would you be doing if you weren’t working in your field?
Most prolific drug dealer you’d probably would’ve never heard about. I’m joking, haha.
To read more from the 2026 CULT100 honorees, see the full list here.
in your life?
