In 1998, Dewey Thompson opened a small, 12-table restaurant on West 5th Avenue in Columbus with a single dream — to bring the authentic flavors of Neapolitan-style pizza to the American Midwest, one carefully crafted pie at a time.
Dewey learned the art of pizza-making during years spent traveling through Italy and studying under master pizzaiolos in Naples and Rome. Armed with a wood-fired oven imported from southern Italy and a commitment to sourcing only the finest local ingredients, he opened Dewey's pizza with nothing more than a passion for great food and a belief that Columbus deserved better.
"Pizza is not just food — it's the language of community. Every pie we make is a conversation between tradition and heart."
— Dewey Thompson, FounderWord spread quickly. Within six months, lines stretched down the block. What started as a neighborhood gem became a Columbus institution — featured in regional publications, celebrated by food critics, and beloved by locals who made Dewey's their second home. Today, Dewey's pizza stands as a testament to the power of quality, consistency, and community.
Explore Our MenuOur mission at Dewey's pizza is simple: to create extraordinary food experiences rooted in authentic flavors, premium ingredients, and genuine hospitality. We believe every guest who walks through our doors — or places an order — deserves a meal that feels made just for them.
Order NowThe principles that guide every pizza we make, every guest we serve, and every decision we take as a team.
From our hand-stretched dough to our locally sourced toppings, we never compromise on quality. Every ingredient is chosen with intention and care.
Pizza-making is an art form at dewey's. Our team brings genuine love and craftsmanship to each pie, honoring the centuries-old traditions of artisan baking.
We're proud to be part of Columbus's West Side neighborhood. We partner with local farms, support community events, and give back to the people who support us.
We source responsibly, minimize waste, and partner with eco-conscious suppliers. Our commitment to the planet is as strong as our commitment to great pizza.
From a small neighborhood table to Columbus's most beloved pizza destination — every chapter has shaped who we are today.
Dewey Thompson opens the original Dewey's pizza at 1327 W 5th Ave, Columbus, with a hand-built wood-fired oven, 12 tables, and a menu of just six pizzas. The first night sells out within two hours.
Columbus Monthly names Dewey's pizza among the "Top 10 Restaurants in Columbus." The recognition sparks a new wave of guests and expands the team from 5 to 18 staff members. Menu grows to 20 signature pies.
Dewey's expands the kitchen and launches a full catering program for corporate events, weddings, and community gatherings. Catering becomes a cornerstone of the business, serving over 200 events in the first year alone.
A full dining room renovation transforms the space, adding 30 seats, a craft beverage bar, and an open kitchen concept that lets guests watch their pizza being hand-crafted. The "Dewey's Experience" is born.
When the pandemic forced dining rooms to close, Dewey's pivoted quickly to online ordering and contactless delivery. The team also donated over 1,000 pizzas to local healthcare workers and food banks across Columbus throughout 2020.
Celebrating 25 years of dewey's pizza, the anniversary menu features reimagined classics alongside new seasonal creations. The team now numbers 40+ dedicated staff, and Dewey's remains as committed to quality, community, and great pizza as ever.
Our talented team of pizza artisans, chefs, and hospitality professionals are the heart and soul of Dewey's pizza.
The visionary behind Dewey's pizza. Trained in Naples, Italy, Dewey brings over 30 years of pizza artistry and an unwavering love for his craft to every single day at the restaurant.
Maria joined Dewey's in 2005 and mastered the wood-fired oven within her first year. Her signature touch on the Margherita and seasonal specials has made her a guest favorite over two decades.
James brings culinary school precision and a creative flair to Dewey's dessert menu. His tiramisu and cannoli have become almost as legendary as the pizzas themselves among our regulars.
Aisha ensures every guest who walks through the door feels at home. With 10 years at Dewey's, her warmth and meticulous attention to hospitality set the gold standard for the entire team.
Interested in joining the Dewey's family?
View Open PositionsWhether you're dining in, picking up, or ordering delivery — every Dewey's experience is crafted with the same love and quality we've poured into every pie since 1998.
