For the first time in its 79-year history, Buddy’s Pizza, the iconic brand known for popularizing Detroit-style pizza, is introducing a new twist on its classic offering: round pizzas.
In a surprising departure from its square roots, the chain began testing its new “Rendezvous Rounds” on February 17 at its Grand Rapids and Portage, Michigan locations. To celebrate the launch, Buddy’s gave away free 10-inch round cheese pizzas to the first 46 customers at each store.
The new round pies are part of Buddy’s strategy to evolve with changing customer preferences. CEO Joe Dominiak explained that while Detroit-style square pizzas remain popular, feedback from West Michigan customers suggested a desire for more variety in pizza options. “Pizza should make people happy,” Dominiak said. “We heard from our customers, many of whom didn’t grow up with Detroit-style square pizza, that they wanted more styles, sizes, and price points.”
The Rendezvous Rounds, available in 10-inch and 14-inch sizes, maintain Buddy’s signature sauce, three-cheese blend, and Sicilian spices. Specialty options include the Supreme, Meat Lovers, and Napoli pizzas, with prices starting at $10.49 for a 10-inch pie and $13.99 for a 14-inch. Customers can also create their own pizza, with build-your-own options priced at $8.49 for a 10-inch or $11.49 for a 14-inch, plus additional charges for toppings.
For younger pizza lovers, Buddy’s offers the 7-inch “Lil’ Rendezvous” for $4.99, which includes a cheese pizza, Buddy bread, and a choice of fries, fruit, or steamed vegetables.
In addition to the menu changes, Buddy’s Pizza is offering customers a chance to win a year of free food at the Grand Rapids and Portage locations. Between February 17 and February 23, one lucky customer per day will be randomly selected to receive a voucher for free Buddy’s meals for the year.
On February 26, the Portage store will host a special event featuring Porter the Growler, mascot of the Kalamazoo Growlers baseball team. Fans can take photos with Porter and the 2024 Northwoods League Championship trophy.
“Buddy’s Pizza has been bringing people together for nearly 80 years, and we want to continue doing that in as many neighborhoods as possible,” Dominiak said. “To grow successfully, we need to embrace change and try new things, ensuring a better experience for both our customers and our company.”
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