SYLVANIA, OH — Centennial Terrace is set to be filled with the delicious aroma of pizzas rather than the usual lineup of vehicles as the 12th annual Pizza Palooza event kicks off this weekend. Doors open at 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, bringing together a dozen local eateries to compete for the coveted Judge’s Choice and People’s Choice awards.
“This is a great week for Sylvania,” Mayor Craig Stough declared. “We have the Dana Open at Highland Meadows and Pizza Palooza going on at the same time. It’s events like these that draw people to town and make Sylvania a great place to live.”
The formidable list of culinary competitors this year includes Bambino’s, Half Time, Romeo’s, Mama Mary’s, Viking Pizzeria, Jet’s Pizza, J-Cups, Dandino’s, Bombay Kitchen, Hindsight Pizza, the V.I., and Mike’s Pizza.
J-Cup’s Pizza: One of the sentimental favorites in the competition, J-Cup’s Pizza has been in business for over 12 years. The unusual name is a funky spelling of the last name of the restaurant’s founder, Jim Jacobs, who passed away from cancer over a year ago. Now, the Jim Jacobs Award is given to the local pizzeria that exemplifies good sportsmanship by helping other vendors with their displays and booths. Current owner Kaleb Tober believes their specialty pizzas, like the Buffalo Buck featuring cream cheese, hot sauce, and chicken, are their secret weapon.
Viking Pizzeria: Located in Lyons, Ohio, Viking Pizzeria is known for its pickle pizza and chicken bacon ranch pizza. Owner Joshua Radel takes pride in the restaurant’s unique flavors. “This is our third year at Pizza Palooza,” Radel said. “We got second place last year in two divisions. This year, we’re aiming for first.”
Half Time Pizza: Situated at Bancroft Street and King Road in Sylvania Township, Half Time Pizza is known for its generous cheese and toppings. Owner Rachel Snyder is confident in their offerings. “This is our third year at Pizza Palooza. Tasting will be believing for the judges.”
Mama Mary’s Pizza: A seasoned competitor, Mama Mary’s Pizza of Holland has participated every year since 2012. General manager Frank Hornik emphasizes quality ingredients, including self-cooked and sliced sausage and fresh pineapple.
V.I. Pizza: General manager Kim Schultz believes the former Village Inn’s secret recipes and in-house sauces will win the day. “All our toppings are fresh — and we even make our own Italian dressing,” she said.
Jet’s Pizza: Known for its Detroit-style deep-dish pies, Jet’s Pizza hopes to replicate last year’s success. “This is what we’re known for,” said Nick Knezevich.
Dandino’s: Owner Barb Files attributes their success to a loving and caring attitude, along with quality ingredients from Sofo’s. The restaurant has been participating since 2018 and has won several awards, including the Jim Jacobs Award last year.
Bambino’s: With 30 years in the business, Bambino’s has a big extended menu, including burgers, tacos, and hot dogs, alongside their fresh dough pizzas. The restaurant also offers halal pepperoni and vegan pizzas.
Mike’s Pizza and More: Owner LeAnn Mockensturm believes generous quantities of sauce and toppings are key to their success. The restaurant was opened by her late husband Mike in 2017.
Romeo’s Pizza: With a unique sweet sauce, Romeo’s Pizza has been in business for over three years. Owner Calvin Courtock believes this sets them apart in the competition.
The event promises to be a spicy competition with attendees encouraged to vote for their favorite pizzas. Mayor Stough highlighted the community spirit these events foster, drawing people together to celebrate local businesses and enjoy delicious food.
Everyone is encouraged to come and bring their homeslice for a weekend filled with flavor and fun at the Pizza Palooza.