Tony Boloney’s and Mad Mutz Laboratory Honored with Innovation Award in Atlantic City

Atlantic City has long been known for its casinos, boardwalk, and bustling entertainment scene—but one small business has been changing that narrative with bold flavors and culinary innovation. This year, Tony Boloney’s Atlantic City and its spinoff, Mad Mutz Laboratory, were awarded the Innovation Award as part of the City of Atlantic City’s “Keep It Local” campaign.

The award was presented by the city’s Economic Development Division under the Department of Planning & Development, highlighting the critical role that small businesses play in shaping Atlantic City’s identity and strengthening its local economy.

From a Convenience Store to a Culinary Institution

When founder Mike Hauke opened Tony Boloney’s in 2009, the business began as a modest convenience store. But it wasn’t long before Hauke shifted gears, transforming the space into a restaurant that pushed boundaries with imaginative pizzas, sandwiches, and mozzarella creations.

Known for its playful, over-the-top menu, Tony Boloney’s quickly became a destination for food lovers. One of its biggest hits—the flavored mozzarella sticks—was not only a fan favorite but also the spark that inspired Hauke to launch Mad Mutz Laboratory, a dedicated brand built around producing these mozzarella sticks on a larger scale.

Mad Mutz Laboratory: From Atlantic City to Global Stage

With the creation of Mad Mutz Laboratory, Hauke and his business partner Michael Burns took a local favorite and elevated it into a product with national and international appeal. Their inventive mozzarella sticks even landed them on ABC’s Shark Tank, a milestone that further propelled the brand’s recognition and reach.

What began as a neighborhood eatery has now grown into a globally recognized food brand, demonstrating how a mix of creativity, risk-taking, and dedication can fuel long-term growth and success.

Recognized for Innovation

At the award ceremony, Mayor Marty Small Sr. personally honored Tony Boloney’s and Mad Mutz Laboratory, issuing a proclamation that praised the businesses as role models for future entrepreneurs.

“Therefore, I, Mayor Marty Small Sr., Mayor of the great city of Atlantic City, hereby recognize Mad Mutz’s Mozzarella Laboratory for being a role model for future entrepreneurs in the great city of Atlantic City and wish this business continued success both locally and now globally.”

For Hauke, the recognition was deeply meaningful. He described it as “a welcoming surprise” to be honored by the city and proud to see both his and Michael Burns’ work celebrated with the Innovation Award.

A Community Built on Creativity

The story of Tony Boloney’s and Mad Mutz Laboratory reflects more than just the rise of a successful business. It highlights the power of innovation in Atlantic City’s small business community and how creative entrepreneurs can help redefine the city’s culture and reputation.

The “Keep It Local” campaign is designed to showcase businesses like Hauke’s that bring something fresh and unexpected to the community, proving that Atlantic City is about more than its casinos—it’s also about flavor, passion, and originality.

Looking Ahead

With a strong foundation built on innovation, national recognition, and global reach, Tony Boloney’s and Mad Mutz Laboratory continue to set the bar for what’s possible when big ideas meet local pride. For Hauke and his team, the journey from a convenience store in 2009 to winning an Innovation Award in 2025 is proof that Atlantic City’s entrepreneurial spirit is alive and thriving.

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