While working third shift in a small commissary kitchen, bottling jars late into the night to keep stores stocked, Joe began writing what was originally meant to be a practical guide on how to break into the shelf-stable food industry. Alone with the hum of equipment and long hours of reflection, the project slowly transformed into something deeper—a raw life story and testimony about addiction, failure, faith, and redemption. What emerged was not just a book, but a message that resonated far beyond food, helping countless people feel seen and hopeful while opening doors to speaking engagements, media opportunities, and creative projects that expanded the impact of Apastioli well beyond the sauce itself. Here is the complete audiobook narrated by an AI voiceover.
Premium Italian Sauces from Charleston — Crafted with Purpose
Discover authentic Italian sauces made in Charleston with clean ingredients and a recovery-led mission. Every jar supports our commitment to second chances and community impact. Free shipping on orders over $50.
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Real stories from people who love our handcrafted products
"I've tried dozens of pasta sauces and nothing compares to Apastioli. The flavor is incredible - you can taste the quality ingredients and the care that goes into every jar. My family asks for it by name now, and I love supporting a mission-driven business."
"Bought the sauce at Piggly Wiggly on a whim and now I order it online by the case. It's become a staple in our kitchen. The marinara is perfect for weeknight dinners, and the story behind the brand makes every meal feel more meaningful."
"The gift set I ordered for my sister was a huge hit! The sauce is restaurant-quality, and she loved learning about the recovery-led team behind it. I've since ordered for myself and recommended it to at least a dozen friends."
"As someone who grew up eating authentic Italian food, I'm picky about my sauce. Apastioli nails it - the texture, the seasoning, everything. Plus knowing each purchase supports second chances makes it taste even better."
From Bars To Jars Complete Audiobook
Example product title
Apastioli Specialty Foods
Authentic New Haven Style Pizza Sauce | All Natural | Gluten Free | Low Sodium | No Cholesterol

Joe on Fox News
Want To Partner?
Partner with Apastioli — Where Story Meets Craft
Apastioli isn’t just a brand — it’s a movement built on authenticity, craftsmanship, and second chances. From our award-winning gourmet sauces made with clean-label ingredients to our to our founder's story that your customers will be inspired by and connect with.
Retailers who carry Apastioli gain more than great products — they gain a partner. We support our stores through:
- In-store demos & appearances with Chef Giuseppe (Joe Gallagher Jr.)
- Cross-promotion on the Lowcountry Lunatics podcast and social media
- Co-branded content & local advertising to drive foot traffic
- Private-label options for boutique exclusivity
Whether it’s a jar of sauce or a blessing through faith, Apastioli helps you offer something deeper — a product with a purpose, and a story your customers will remember.
Let’s build something meaningful together.
📩 Reach us at info@apastioli.com to request samples or schedule a meeting.
More Press
LA Weekly
From Rockstar Dreams to Gourmet Jars: How Chef Giuseppe Turned Pain into Purpose with Apastioli
More Press
Holy City Sinner
Locally made tomato sauce is a rarity in the Lowcountry, but Joe Gallagher Jr. has made it a reality. Also known as Chef Giuseppe, Gallagher founded Apastioli Specialty Foods in Charleston in 2024.
Local Partner
Lowcountry Local First
Apastioli is more than a food brand — it’s a testimony to grit, grace, and second chances. Born in Charleston, South Carolina, and rooted in a deeply personal journey of recovery, Apastioli creates authentic Italian specialty foods that nourish both body and spirit.