History and Offerings of Peter Piper Pizza, the Family Fun Pizza Chain

The History of Peter Piper Pizza

Peter Piper Pizza is a beloved American pizza chain that has been serving up delicious pizza and family fun since 1973. The very first Peter Piper Pizza opened in Glendale, Arizona by founders Lynne and Jim Hoak. The idea was to create a pizza parlor that offered wholesome family dining, arcade-style entertainment, and of course, great pizza. The name "Peter Piper" was inspired by the classic tongue twister nursery rhyme.

The Hoaks aimed to differentiate Peter Piper Pizza from the more adult-oriented pizza parlors that were popular in the 70s. By focusing on a family friendly environment, Peter Piper Pizza quickly became a go-to spot for birthday parties and kids' sports team celebrations across Arizona. Throughout the 70s and 80s, Peter Piper Pizza expanded across the Southwest United States.

The Pizza

At the core of Peter Piper Pizza's appeal is the food itself. Peter Piper Pizza is known for its fresh, never frozen signature dough that yields a perfect crispy-on-the-outside, soft-and-supple-on-the-inside crust. Toppings include classic pizza toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, sausage, and olives as well as some unique offerings like jalapeños and pineapple. In addition to pizza, Peter Piper Pizza serves wings, salads, desserts, and drinks.

Some of Peter Piper Pizza's stand-out menu items include:

• Colorado Mountain High Pizza - Loaded with pepperoni, sausage, beef, bacon, ham, and extra cheese
• Buffalo Chicken Pizza - Crispy chicken, buffalo sauce, and a ranch dressing swirl
• Cinnapie Dessert Pizza - Cinnamon and sugar coated dough with sweet icing

The Arcade-Style Entertainment

What sets Peter Piper Pizza apart from the competition is the bustling, vibrant, family-centered atmosphere of a Peter Piper Pizza restaurant. The interiors feature brightly colored decor, curated playlists of kid-appropriate tunes, and of course row upon row of flashy arcade games.

Peter Piper Pizza arcades are equipped with all the classics like Whac-A-Mole, basketball toss games, skeeball, air hockey, and driving games. Newer locations feature state-of-the-art gaming with virtual reality experiences, modern redemption games, and interactive dance floors.

Peter Piper Pizza's Continued Growth

After building a strong regional presence in the Southwest, Peter Piper Pizza was acquired by national restaurant group CEC Entertainment in the mid 1990s. This allowed the brand to accelerate expansion across the United States. There are now over 500 Peter Piper Pizza locations across 36 states.

Peter Piper Pizza underwent another major shift in 2014 when it was acquired by Apollo Global Management. With this new ownership, Peter Piper Pizza has seen a brand revamp and updated logo, reimaged restaurants, new technology integrations, enhanced menu offerings, and updated gaming options.

Community Involvement

As a family-friendly restaurant, community responsibility and giving back are baked into Peter Piper Pizza's DNA. Locations regularly partner with schools and non-profits for fundraising events. The brand also offers discounts for sports teams, teachers, healthcare workers, and first responders.

Peter Piper Pizza's national partnership with Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation has raised over $1 million for childhood cancer research. The restaurants also participate in local toy drives, food drives, literacy initiatives, and more.

New Innovations

While staying true to its signature pizzas and arcade-style fun, Peter Piper Pizza continues to innovate to meet the changing tastes of families. Some newer offerings include:

• Online ordering for delivery, takeout, and catering
• MobileGame Truck parties that bring the arcade experience on-the-go
• State-of-the-art VR gaming and interactive dance floors
• Fresh salad bar and gluten-free crust options
• Beer and wine options for parents

Why Parents and Kids Love Peter Piper Pizza

Peter Piper Pizza remains popular with families even amidst a growing array of dining options because it provides a reliable one-stop shop for great food, games, and birthday party memories. Kids love getting to play arcade games and redeem prize tickets. Busy parents appreciate the ability to enjoy a meal out while their kids are entertained.

The inviting, energetic atmosphere caters perfectly to excited kids celebrating a sports team win or birthday treat. Peter Piper Pizza's fresh pizza recipes keep parents coming back again and again as well. Delivery, online ordering, catering services, and special offers make enjoying Peter Piper Pizza even more convenient for today's busy families.

For over 40 years Peter Piper Pizza has maintained its signature blend of family dining. The brand continues to evolve with the times while staying true to the values of quality, service, and wholesome fun on which it was founded back in 1973. For families looking to combine great food, games, and lasting memories, Peter Piper Pizza delivers.

FAQs

When was the first Peter Piper Pizza opened?

The very first Peter Piper Pizza opened in 1973 in Glendale, Arizona by founders Lynne and Jim Hoak.

What makes Peter Piper Pizza different from other pizza chains?

Peter Piper Pizza differentiates itself by offering an arcade/entertainment center environment alongside fresh pizza and other menu items. It caters to families with kids.

What are some of Peter Piper Pizza's most popular food menu items?

Some customer favorites include the Colorado Mountain High Pizza, Buffalo Chicken Pizza, wings, Cinnapie Dessert Pizza, salads, and drinks.

Does Peter Piper Pizza offer any gluten-free options?

Yes, Peter Piper Pizza locations now offer gluten-free pizza crusts to accommodate guests with gluten intolerance.

Does Peter Piper Pizza do food delivery?

Yes, most locations offer online ordering, takeout, delivery, and catering services for added customer convenience.