Step into Pizza Barn in Pioneer, Ohio, and you’ll immediately understand it’s more than just a pizza place – it’s a cornerstone of the community built on strong values. Since its inception in 1975, Pizza Barn has been serving up not only delicious food but also a generous helping of faith and community spirit. Owner Bob Martin proudly displays the restaurant’s ethos right on their sign: “In God We Trust,” a testament to the values that guide their business.
From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The décor reflects local pride, with flags representing Ohio State, University of Michigan, Michigan State, and Reading High School adorning the walls. This isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a local hub where community allegiances and local spirit are celebrated.
Pizza Barn’s commitment to its values extends beyond words. Following a principle similar to Chick-fil-A, they are closed on Sundays. Bob Martin, the owner, explains, “Never been open a Sunday yet,” emphasizing the importance of rest and faith in their business model. This decision, rooted in their ministry background, highlights their dedication to principles over profit.
The origins of Pizza Barn are deeply intertwined with community service. Bob and his wife Ruth, active in youth ministry, envisioned the restaurant as a positive space for local youngsters. “Ruth and I have always been involved with the youth at our church… and we wanted to give the kids in town a good place to hang out,” Martin shares. This vision of community support remains at the heart of Pizza Barn, even as it has expanded from its original simple menu of pizza, pop, and ice cream to a diverse menu across two locations.
This community focus is evident in their daily operations. Pizza Barn is a popular spot for students after school and sporting events. “After school’s out, if they’ve got a ball game we get a lot of school kids,” Martin notes. Furthermore, Pizza Barn actively supports local schools and organizations, providing food for pizza days at Camden-Frontier and Reading schools, and even band camps at Kimball Camp YMCA.
Beyond the community spirit, Pizza Barn is serious about its food. During a visit, Bob Martin prepared a chicken, bacon, ranch supreme pizza, showcasing their dedication to quality and generous portions. The pizza features a perfectly crispy, buttery crust loaded with a rich, gooey blend of white sauce and mozzarella, topped with generous amounts of crispy bacon, tender white chicken, and savory mushrooms. Each nine-inch pizza is packed with toppings, ensuring customer satisfaction.
Bob Martin’s philosophy is simple yet impactful: “I’m a firm believer in giving people their money’s worth.” This commitment to value, combined with their faith-based principles and community focus, makes Pizza Barn Pioneer Ohio a truly unique and cherished local establishment. It’s a place where you can enjoy a delicious meal while supporting a business that prioritizes faith, community, and quality.
