When asking yourself about something to do near me in Phoenix with a group of friends or family, consider
Pizza To The Rescue
Why Pizza To The Rescue is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Pizza to the Rescue is a unique and heartwarming dining destination in Phoenix, Arizona, blending delicious food with a mission to save puppies. Opened in April 2024 by owners Geri Hormel and Hunter Rodgers, this restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere perfect for casual meet-ups with friends. Its menu showcases an eclectic mix of Italian, Mediterranean, and American-inspired dishes, including handmade pastas, fresh salads, and Neapolitan-style pizzas baked in a custom 10,000-pound Italian wood-fired oven. Using ingredients sourced daily from local purveyors and authentic Italian products, every meal is crafted with attention to quality and flavor. The restaurant also features an extensive Italian wine list and signature cocktails, enhancing the dining experience. One of the most remarkable aspects of Pizza to the Rescue is its commitment to animal welfare, donating 25% of all pizza sales to Almost There Rescue, a nonprofit dog rescue organization located right next door. Diners can enjoy their meals on a dog-friendly patio where adoptable puppies visit regularly, creating an engaging and compassionate environment. Pizza to the Rescue operates six days a week, closing on Sundays, and offers both takeout and delivery options. This combination of great food, a cozy ambiance, and a meaningful cause makes it an exceptional spot for gathering with friends while supporting the local community and puppies in need.
Here's what people think of Pizza To The Rescue
As of recent, Pizza To The Rescue holds a 4.9-star rating based on 1767 reviews.
Reviews for Pizza to the Rescue have been overwhelmingly positive, earning the restaurant a stellar 4.9 rating from over 1,700 reviewers. Customers consistently praise the restaurant for its warm and inviting atmosphere, making it an ideal neighborhood hangout. The quality and freshness of the food receive high marks, with many reviewers highlighting the wood-fired pizzas, creative menu inspired by Mediterranean influences, and the variety of Italian wines available. The attention to detail in both the cooking and service is frequently noted, encouraging diners to return multiple times. Many reviewers appreciate the unique concept of combining a restaurant with a puppy rescue, enjoying the chance to interact with adoptable dogs while dining on excellent food. On the positive side, guests mention the friendly staff, dog-friendly patio, and the authentic flavors of the dishes as standout features. They particularly love the specialty pizzas, handcrafted desserts like lemon custard and pistachio cheesecake, and the cocktail offerings. Negative feedback is limited but includes occasional mentions of the restaurant being busy at peak times, which may lead to longer waits. A few reviews mention limited parking, although valet parking is available. Nonetheless, these minor critiques do not overshadow the overwhelmingly favorable reviews. Overall, Pizza to the Rescue impresses patrons not only with its delicious food and drink but also with its admirable mission and community-oriented spirit, making it a beloved spot in Phoenix for food lovers and dog enthusiasts alike.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
A
My only comment is that the music sent us into a bit of a daze. But the pizookie was good and the pizza was good. We got a pizza where you had to add mozzarella which was interesting. The pizza was enough to fill 3 people. The pizookei was also splendid and the ice cream on top was also good. It’s great to know that our money goes to a good cause as well. Went on a Tuesday afternoon and it was great. No wait.
Mark Backensto
We were hungry for pizza and decided to give this place a try based on reviews. We got seated right away and had a waiter immediately. I ordered a pizza, and she got pasta based on the servers' suggestion. The pizza is a thin crust, crunchy on the outside but soft in the center, very, very good. The spicy rigatoni was absolutely amazing! Very rich and good flavor!! The atmosphere is great. They have bar seating, small tables around the bar, tables off to the side, and an outdoor covered seating with misters. One of our favorite parts is they donate a part of their proceeds to the dog rescue right behind them! The outside seating area is dog friendly.
TacoBebs
I guess I was expecting this place to be pretty good, but I wouldn't mind the quality because it's for a good cause. This place blew our minds! We shared a pizza that was really good. We haven't enjoyed a pizza this much in a long time. We also split the Basque cheesecake for dessert. It was my first time trying it, and it was so delicious! We'll definitely be back.
Jennifer Leahy
Best pizza in the valley!!!! High class Italian. We ordered artichokes, spicy rigatoni pasta, pizzas, meatballs, cheesecake, tiramisu, paw cookie…. all superb!!!! Service is on the same level- Chase & David went above & beyond to ensure our experience was perfect. Highly recommend!
Christopher Owens
I recently had the pleasure of checking out Pizza to the Rescue with a group of friends, and let me tell you—it was an experience I won’t soon forget. I’d heard the food was great, and that 20% of the proceeds go toward a local dog rescue, which is already a huge win. But what I didn’t expect was the added bonus of puppies right there in the restaurant, just waiting to be held, petted, and possibly even adopted. Seriously, who needs to worry about the wait for food when you’re holding a tiny ball of fluff? Now, onto the food—because, yes, it was good too. We kicked things off with a round of cocktails (because, why not?) and a shareable plate of meatballs that was so tasty I briefly considered asking for a second round. For the pizzas, we tried a few different options, including the classic Margherita and the Italian Stallion (no, it’s not a new dance move, but it sure packs a punch of flavor!). Everything was solid, and the service was decent. But, honestly, while the food was great, it was the puppies that stole the show. If you’re someone who enjoys delicious pizza and cuddling with adorable pups, Pizza to the Rescue is basically heaven on Earth. Highly recommend for anyone who wants to eat well, do good, and leave with a full belly—and possibly a new furry friend.
How to reach Pizza To The Rescue
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Website: None
Why Pizza To The Rescue may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Pizza To The Rescue with your friends? Because it is more than just a place to eat — it is a vibrant, meaningful destination where you can enjoy outstanding food, connect with others, and support a noble cause all at once. With its exceptional 4.9 rating from over 1,700 reviewers, this Phoenix eatery has earned a stellar reputation for quality and atmosphere. The moment you step inside or onto its comfortable patio, you’ll feel the perfect blend of friendly buzz and relaxed charm that sets the stage for great conversations and memorable gatherings. The restaurant takes pride in its craft, offering pizzas with the thinnest, crispiest wood-charred crusts, alongside excellent pastas and creative cocktails, all made from scratch using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. And beyond just sharing delicious food, you and your friends get to participate in something special: 25% of all pizza sales directly fund a nearby dog rescue organization, Almost There Rescue. This gives your meetup a unique, heartwarming dimension, making Pizza To The Rescue the ideal rallying spot for both your palate and your values.
What activities make Pizza To The Rescue perfect for group meetups? One of the central pleasures of visiting this venue is savoring its exceptional menu together. The pizzas are crafted for sharing—they come with innovative toppings like spicy rigatoni or cured yolk garnishes that spark conversations and culinary excitement. Groups can enjoy a wine pairing recommended by expert staff, elevating the dining experience through complementary flavors. Beyond the food, the venue includes a gorgeous interior and a well-covered patio, accommodating different group sizes and preferences for indoor or outdoor seating, which helps everyone feel comfortable even in the Arizona heat. The atmosphere is upscale yet inviting, making it suitable for casual meetups or special occasions like birthday parties or celebrations. In fact, many patrons have booked the intimate wine room for private gatherings, which offers an exclusive space within the restaurant to entertain friends or family in style.
How does Pizza To The Rescue stand out from other pizza places nearby? The combination of culinary artistry and a purposeful mission makes it truly unique. This isn’t just a pizza joint but a community hub that gives back. The owners have designed the business so that every pizza sold contributes directly to shelter dogs in need. Seeing that 25% of pizza proceeds support local rescue pups adds a feel-good factor to every bite. It’s a powerful draw for animal lovers and socially conscious diners who want their leisure time to make a tangible difference. Additionally, the attention to detail in sourcing ingredients and decor reflects an ethos of quality and responsibility that piques interest and loyalty. Patrons often remark on the exceptional wood-fired crust, innovative pasta dishes, and alluring desserts like the Basque cheesecake — all of which justify repeat visits and group recommendations.
Why is the atmosphere at Pizza To The Rescue so conducive to socializing? The design and layout encourage connection. The patio is well-covered, keeping guests comfortable even on warm Arizona days, while the interior boasts tasteful decor that merges rustic warmth with modern flair. The presence of a bar serving creative cocktails and a thought-through wine list means that groups can linger over drinks as easily as meals. The setting facilitates relaxed conversations, laughter, and easy mingling. Many visitors appreciate the warm, attentive service that elevates the experience. The staff even suggest wine pairings that spark enjoyable discussions among friends exploring different flavors together. Whether it’s a casual weekend meetup or a themed party, the environment fosters inclusivity and celebration.
What group sizes and occasions does Pizza To The Rescue best accommodate? The flexibility of seating options makes this restaurant suitable for a broad range of gatherings. Small groups of 3-6 friends can cozy up either on the shaded outdoor patio or inside near the bar, enjoying an intimate vibe while sharing plates and stories. Larger parties can reserve the wine room, offering privacy and an elegant setting for special occasions like birthday dinners, anniversary celebrations, or office events. The menu’s sharable options and variety ensure that diverse tastes are catered to, with options for meat lovers, vegetarians, and fans of both traditional and innovative Italian cuisine. This adaptability means the restaurant is a go-to for casual catch-ups, family reunions, or more formal get-togethers. The high rating signals that the experience reliably impresses groups of all sizes.
How does the commitment to animal rescue enhance your visit? Supporting Almost There Rescue means every meal you share has a positive ripple effect beyond your table. Almost There Rescue specializes in nurturing pregnant and nursing dogs and puppies, giving them a second chance at life. Pizza To The Rescue’s pledge to donate 25% of pizza proceeds to this cause ties your evening out to real-world impact. This social responsibility adds meaning and depth to your group outing, fostering a sense of community not just among your friends but also with the local neighborhood and its vulnerable animals. Visitors often find this mission adds an emotional layer to the joy of dining, making the return visits fulfilling on multiple levels. Knowing your fun helps save puppies creates a heartwarming backdrop for any get-together.
What are some highlights on the menu that groups rave about? Customers consistently praise the exceptionally thin, crisp, and wood-charred pizzas, which serve as the centerpiece of any group meal. Standouts include the Spicy Rigatoni pizza that blends heat and comfort, and pastas like Cacio e Pepe accented with visually stunning cured yolk, which add surprise and delight to traditional dishes. Several vegetable sides offer options for lighter companions, and desserts—especially the creamy Basque cheesecake—are frequently described as irresistible. Drinks complementing the meal include a curated wine list with suggested pairings and an inventive cocktail menu ensuring every guest discovers something appealing. The thoughtful menu design caters perfectly to sharers and those keen to try multiple items, enhancing the pleasure of communal dining.
How accessible and welcoming is Pizza To The Rescue? Located conveniently at 2601 E Indian School Rd in Phoenix, the restaurant is easy to reach by car or ride-share. The staff are known for their friendliness and professional service, which promotes a welcoming environment for newcomers and regulars alike. The ambiance balances sophistication with approachability, creating a space where groups can feel at home whether dressing up for a special night or casually dropping in. The well-planned layout accommodates heat with a covered patio and maintains a comfortable interior for all seasons. Reviews show that the restaurant quickly earns the trust and return visits of customers, which is crucial for group outings that require assurance of consistency and excellent experience every time.
Why do food lovers and socially conscious patrons alike keep coming back? It’s the rare combination of superb food, exceptional service, atmosphere, and a compelling mission. The quality of the wood-fired pies and handmade pastas satisfies even the most discerning palates, while the charitable element supports a cause that resonates deeply with many. Regular guests highlight not only the innovative dishes and drinks but also the meaningful story behind the restaurant that keeps them loyal. The opportunity to host private parties in the wine room or enjoy the welcoming patio means that Pizza To The Rescue keeps offering fresh, versatile experiences for groups. This blend of enjoyment and impact creates lasting impressions, ensuring that this pizza spot remains a beloved neighborhood gem and a smart choice for friends and families seeking a standout venue for their get-togethers.