SLO County restaurant wins big at international pizza competition. Find out who
A San Luis Obispo County pizza restaurant scored major kudos at an international competition.
Palo Mesa Pizza competed against 109 other pizzerias in March at the International Pizza Expo in Las Vegas.
“This was a huge moment — not just for us, but for the Central Coast,” Palo Mesa Pizza co-owner and chef Michael Stevens said in a news release.
“We’ve always focused on doing things the right way – honoring tradition, using quality ingredients and putting heart into every pizza,” Stevens said. “To represent San Luis Obispo County and be recognized at this level is incredibly meaningful.”
The local restaurant chain has a handful of locations in San Luis Obispo County.
Here’s what to know:
SLO County restaurant competes at International Pizza Expo
Palo Mesa Pizza took first place in the preliminary round of the International Pizza Expo’s Italian Classica division, which showcases “Neapolitan-style round pizzas baked directly on the floor of a high-temp dome oven,” trade publication Pizza Today said.
To qualify, pies must have at least one topping besides sauce and cheese.
Although Palo Mesa Pizza was No. 1 in the initial round of judging, the restaurant did not advance past the finals to make the top three.
According to the release, the competition marked Steven’s first time earning first place in an international competition, although he has placed first in regional competitions.
Stevens has been attending the International Pizza Expo for nearly 20 years, according to Kelly Stevens, co-owner of Palo Mesa Pizza.
“We’re proud to bring this title home to the Central Coast,” he said.
What is on the menu at Palo Mesa Pizza?
In addition to appetizers and salads, Palo Mesa Pizza said it serves up a variety of handmade pizzas with “hand-tossed dough and pizza sauce topped with only the freshest of ingredients.”
Menu options include California chicken, Greek and taco pizzas, as well as classic cheese, meat and veggie options.
The Ken’s Favorite pizza features pepperoni, ham, Italian sausage, hamburger and bacon with banana peppers, green peppers, mushrooms and more.
Palo Mesa Pizza also serves pastas, calzones and sandwiches.
The Palo Pack deal that includes a large two-topping pizza, cheese bread, and a 2-liter bottle of soda.
Where are pizzeria locations open in SLO, Arroyo Grande?
Palo Mesa Pizza has a total of five locations in San Luis Obispo County.
Here’s where to find them:
- 2790 South Halcyon Road in Arroyo Grande
- 906 Rancho Parkway in Arroyo Grande
- 3536 South Higuera St., Suite No. 206, in San Luis Obispo
- 811 Froom Ranch Way, Suite No. 160, in San Luis Obispo
Both Arroyo Grande locations and the SLO Ranch location are open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Palo Mesa Pizza’s Froom Ranch Way location is open 11:15 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday, and 11:15 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Palo Mesa Pizza, 150 West Branch St. in the Village of Arroyo Grande, was temporarily closed as of Tuesday, April 7.
