Bear Mountain Pizza marked its 25th anniversary on Monday by expressing gratitude to its loyal customers.
Owner Manuel Pantoja, who took over the pizzeria in 1999, said he started working there part-time before becoming the owner. At just 24 years old and with little experience in the food industry, Pantoja has seen unwavering support from the community over the years.
On the anniversary, Bear Mountain Pizza offered reduced-price pizzas to celebrate and give back to the community. Pantoja said, “We have Appreciation Day for our customers. We have pizza for $8.99—we just want to give back a little bit to the community.”
Pantoja emphasized the importance of investing in local youth, noting that he supports various sports teams, including Little League, basketball, soccer, and wrestling.
Reflecting on his journey, Pantoja shared, “Before I was working in the fields, so this was my first job after the fields. I was working here for two years when the owner decided to sell the business.”
With a solid understanding of how the restaurant operated, Pantoja seized the opportunity and now makes between 50 to 100 pizzas a day. He looks forward to continuing his service and deepening his connection with the community.