&pizza, the unconventional collection of local pizza shops known for craft pizza, housemade sodas, and ampersand-tattooed employees, is putting its stamp on Philly. Called the pizza shop of the 21st century because of its innovative approach to food and brand culture, &pizza will open its first shop in Philadelphia at the SE corner of 15th and Walnut Street in Rittenhouse Square this fall.
With 15 shops in the Mid Atlantic Region, &pizza prides itself on serving up experiences in addition to fresh pizza. Guests have the opportunity to craft their own individual pie with unlimited ingredients or choose from nine signature pizzas, each one with its own unique flavor profile. The pizza shop uses fresh ingredients and works with local producers to create its signature and seasonal menu of pizzas, snacks, craft sodas, and artisanal teas. &pizza has created a product that is distinctly their own, and opportunity for its employees and customers to be part of something greater that gives back to the community, from its innovative hiring practices to its &CHARITY program.
“It is our hope to not only become the neighborhood joint where people will want to dine, stay, and play, but a partner dedicated to enriching the community,” says Michael Lastoria, &pizza founder. “Philadelphia is such an amazing city with vibrant energy and soul, and we look forward to building on that energy and growing the tribe in the neighborhood.”
Under the direction of culinary director Jordan Schlotterbeck, &pizza is constantly evolving its menu items, using the high quality ingredients to build flavor profiles that are distinctly their own. &pizza works with other craft businesses to create exclusive ingredients like Gordy’s Pickle Jar pickled red onions and Moon Cheese feta croutons.